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Phrasal verbs "close off" vs "shut off"

Differences between close off and shut off

Close off means to block or restrict access to an area or space, while shut off means to stop the flow of something like water, electricity, or gas.

Meanings and Definitions: close off vs shut off

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Close off

  • 1Block a place to stop people entering.

    The police CLOSED the road OFF after the explosion.

Shut off

  • 1Close, prevent access.

    They SHUT the water OFF while they did the repairs.

Usage Examples: close off, shut off in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

close off

Example

They decided to close off the park for maintenance.

Example

The city closes off the street for the annual parade.

shut off

Example

Please shut off the lights before you leave the room.

Example

He shuts off the water supply when he goes on vacation.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Close off

block access

To prevent entry or exit from a specific area or space.

Example

The police had to block access to the street due to the ongoing protest.

restrict entry

To limit or control who can enter a specific area or space.

Example

The museum restricted entry to the exhibition to only those who had pre-booked tickets.

seal off

To close or block an area or space completely, often for safety reasons.

Example

The firefighters had to seal off the building after the gas leak was detected.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Shut off

turn off

To stop the flow of something like water, electricity, or gas by turning a switch or valve.

Example

Don't forget to turn off the lights before leaving the room.

cut off

To stop the supply of something suddenly or forcefully.

Example

The bank cut off his credit card after he failed to make payments for several months.

disconnect

To separate or break the connection between two things.

Example

The technician had to disconnect the faulty cable to fix the internet connection.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “off”

Differences in close off vs shut off: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: close off or shut off?

Both close off and shut off are commonly used in daily conversation. However, shut off is more frequently used than close off because it is used for more routine tasks like turning off a light or shutting off the water supply. Close off is used less often and usually in situations where access needs to be restricted.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of close off and shut off

Both close off and shut off are informal phrases that are suitable for everyday interactions with friends and family. However, in more formal settings like business or academic contexts, using alternative expressions can convey a more polished tone.

Tone and Implication: The Nuances of close off and shut off

The tone of close off and shut off can differ based on context. Close off often carries a negative or restrictive tone when related to blocking access or limiting freedom, while shut off typically has a practical and neutral tone, especially when referring to stopping the flow of something like water or electricity.

close off & shut off: Synonyms and Antonyms

Close off

Synonyms

Shut off

Synonyms

Antonyms

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