Phrasal verbs "fend off" vs "wander off"

Differences between fend off and wander off

Fend off means to defend oneself against an attack or criticism, while wander off means to move away from a place without a specific destination or purpose.

Meanings and Definitions: fend off vs wander off

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Fend off

  • 1Resist something successfully.

    He managed to FEND OFF the criticism in the press.

  • 2Push an attacker away.

    She FENDED OFF the dog when it attacked her.

Wander off

  • 1Leave a place, usually without telling other people.

    She WANDERED OFF and got lost in the crowd.

  • 2Stop paying attention.

    The lecture was boring and my mind WANDERED OFF after ten minutes.

Usage Examples: fend off, wander off in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

fend off

Example

He tried to fend off the angry crowd.

Example

She fends off the unwanted attention with a smile.

wander off

Example

The child wandered off while his parents were shopping.

Example

She often wanders off during long meetings.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Fend off

To protect oneself or something from harm or danger.

Example

She used pepper spray to ward off the attacker and escape safely.

To protect oneself or something from an attack or criticism.

Example

He had to defend against false accusations and prove his innocence in court.

stand up to

To resist or confront someone or something that is threatening or aggressive.

Example

She decided to stand up to the bully and report their behavior to the school principal.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Wander off

To move away from a group or a place without intending to do so.

Example

As the party went on, some guests started to drift away and leave early.

To move away from a planned or intended course of action or behavior.

Example

He strayed from the path of his career goals and ended up pursuing a different profession.

To become unaware of one's location or surroundings due to distraction or lack of attention.

Example

She was so absorbed in her book that she lost track of time and missed her appointment.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “fend”

Phrasal Verbs with “off”

Differences in fend off vs wander off: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: fend off or wander off?

In daily conversation, people use wander off more often than fend off. This is because wander off is used for more casual situations such as getting distracted or exploring. Fend off is not used as much in everyday conversation. It's mainly used when we're talking about defending ourselves or our ideas. So, while both phrases are used, wander off is more common in everyday conversation.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of fend off and wander off

Fend off and wander 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 fend off and wander off

The tone of fend off and wander off can differ based on context. Fend off often carries a defensive or assertive tone when related to protecting oneself or one's ideas, while wander off typically has a relaxed and carefree tone, especially when referring to exploring or getting lost.

fend off & wander off: Synonyms and Antonyms

Fend off

Synonyms

Wander off

Antonyms

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