Differences between cut off and feed off
Cut off means to stop the supply of something, while feed off means to rely on or benefit from something.
Meanings and Definitions: cut off vs feed off
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Cut off
- 1Disconnect.
The telephone's been CUT OFF because we didn't pay the bill.
- 2Isolate or make inaccessible.
The heavy snow has blocked many roads and CUT OFF a number of villages.
Feed off
- 1Eat a food as part of an animals diet.
The gecko FEEDS OFF mosquitoes and other insects.
- 2Use something to your advantage.
He FEEDS OFF people's fear of crime to get them to support his proposals.
Usage Examples: cut off, feed off in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
cut off
Example
I accidentally cut off the power while rearranging the furniture.
Example
He frequently cuts off the water supply to save resources.
feed off
Example
The plants feed off the nutrients in the soil.
Example
The cat feeds off the mice in the barn.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Cut off
To break the connection or communication between two things or people.
Example
I accidentally disconnected the call while trying to switch to speakerphone.
To stop or bring something to a sudden end.
Example
The construction work had to be halted due to the heavy rain and strong winds.
To stop or come to an end.
Example
The company decided to cease production of the product due to low demand.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Feed off
To use something to one's advantage or benefit.
Example
The company decided to leverage social media to reach a wider audience and increase sales.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “cut”
Phrasal Verbs with “off”
Differences in cut off vs feed off: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: cut off or feed off?
In daily conversation, people use cut off more often than feed off. This is because cut off is used for more common situations such as stopping the water supply or disconnecting a phone call. Feed off is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about someone benefiting from something. So, while both phrases are used, cut off is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of cut off and feed off
Cut off and feed 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 cut off and feed off
The tone of cut off and feed off can differ based on context. Cut off often carries a negative or abrupt tone when related to stopping something, while feed off typically has a positive and opportunistic tone, especially when referring to benefiting from something.
cut off & feed off: Synonyms and Antonyms
Cut off
Synonyms
- disconnect
- sever
- isolate
- block
- terminate
- cutoff