Differences between clear off and clear up
Clear off usually means to remove something from a surface or to leave a place, whereas clear up generally means to make something tidy or organized or to clarify a situation.
Meanings and Definitions: clear off vs clear up
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Clear off
- 1Leave somewhere quickly.
As soon as the trouble started, we CLEARED OFF.
Clear up
- 1Cure or recover from an infection.
I took the antihistamines and the rash CLEARED UP right away.
- 2Tidy up.
I'd better CLEAR AWAY the mess before leave.
- 3Explain.
Could you CLEAR these points UP before we go any further?
- 4Improve ( weather ).
The skies CLEARED UP and the sun came out.
Usage Examples: clear off, clear up in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
clear off
Example
When it started raining, we had to clear off the beach.
Example
She clears off as soon as her boss arrives.
clear up
Example
Please clear up the mess in the kitchen.
Example
She always clears up her room before going to bed.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Clear off
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Clear up
tidy up
To organize or clean a space or an object.
Example
She tidied up her room before the guests arrived to make it look presentable.
straighten up
To make something neat or orderly by arranging it properly.
Example
She straightened up the living room before going to bed to avoid clutter in the morning.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “clear”
Phrasal Verbs with “off”
Phrasal Verbs with “up”
Differences in clear off vs clear up: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: clear off or clear up?
In daily conversation, people use clear up more often than clear off. This is because clear up is used for more daily tasks and routines such as cleaning or organizing. Clear off is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about removing something from a surface. So, while both phrases are used, clear up is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of clear off and clear up
Clear off and clear up are informal phrases often used in casual conversations. They are suitable for everyday interactions with friends and family. In more formal settings like business or academic contexts, using alternative expressions can convey a more polished tone.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of clear off and clear up
The tone of clear off and clear up can differ based on context. Clear off often carries a practical or annoyed tone when related to removing objects or leaving a place, while clear up typically has a helpful and organized tone, especially when referring to tidying or clarifying a situation.
