Differences between cross off and live off

Cross off means to mark something as completed or finished, while live off means to rely on something or someone for financial support or sustenance.

Meanings and Definitions: cross off vs live off

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Cross off

1Delete, remove from a list.
She CROSSED him OFF her Christmas card list after they argued.

Live off

1Use money earned.
They find it hard to LIVE OFF the money they make.
2Be financially supported.
He's 40 and he still LIVES OFF his parents.

Usage Examples: cross off, live off in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

cross off

Example

I always cross off the items on my shopping list as I buy them.

Example

She crosses off each task as she completes it.

live off

Example

Many young adults live off their parents while they attend college.

Example

She lives off her savings while looking for a new job.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Cross off

tick off

To mark something as completed or finished by putting a checkmark next to it.

Example

I always feel a sense of satisfaction when I tick off all the items on my to-do list.

scratch off

To remove or eliminate something from a list or plan.

Example

After reviewing the budget, we had to scratch off some of the expenses to stay within our limit.

cross out

To draw a line through something to indicate that it is no longer valid or needed.

Example

I had to cross out the wrong address on the envelope and write the correct one.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Live off

depend on

To rely on someone or something for support or assistance.

Example

She had to depend on her parents for financial help until she found a job.

subsist on

To survive or maintain oneself on a limited amount of resources or income.

Example

During the pandemic, many people had to subsist on government aid to make ends meet.

be supported by

To receive financial or other forms of support from someone or something.

Example

The artist was able to pursue her passion because she was supported by a generous patron.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “cross”

Phrasal Verbs with “live”

Phrasal Verbs with “off”

Differences in cross off vs live off: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: cross off or live off?

In daily conversation, people use cross off more often than live off. This is because cross off is used in many situations where we need to mark something as done or finished, such as a to-do list or a grocery list. On the other hand, live off is not used as much in everyday conversation. It's mainly used when we're talking about someone's financial situation. So, while both phrases are used, cross off is more common in everyday conversation.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of cross off and live off

Cross off and live off 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 cross off and live off

The tone of cross off and live off can differ based on context. Cross off often carries a sense of accomplishment or satisfaction when marking something as done or completed, while live off can carry a negative connotation of relying on others for support.

cross off & live off: Synonyms and Antonyms

Cross off

Synonyms

delete
remove
eliminate
cancel
erase
strike out
mark off

Antonyms

Live off

Synonyms

depend on
rely on
subsist on
survive on
sustain oneself on

Antonyms

support oneself
be independent
be self-sufficient
provide for oneself