Differences between finish off and go off
Finish off means to complete something, especially the last part of it, while go off means to explode or make a sudden loud noise.
Meanings and Definitions: finish off vs go off
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Finish off
- 1Finish completely.
They FINISHED OFF all the chocolates and had to go to the all - night garage to buy some more.
- 2Kill a person or animal, often when they have already been hurt.
The animal was badly hurt, so they FINISHED it OFF to end its suffering.
- 3Beat, make victory certain in sport.
The second goal FINISHED them OFF.
- 4Consume all.
We FINISHED OFF the coffee and had to get some more.
Go off
- 1Explode ( bomb ), start ringing ( alarm ).
The fire alarm WENT OFF because someone was smoking in the toilets.
- 2Go bad.
The milk WENT OFF because I forgot to put it in the fridge.
- 3Start to dislike.
I WENT OFF her when she lied to me.
- 4Leave a place.
Please don't GO OFF until we have sorted this out.
- 5Take place, follow a plan or pattern.
The party WENT OFF well.
- 6Stop working ( electric / electronic equipment ).
The lights GO OFF automatically when the office is empty.
Usage Examples: finish off, go off in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
finish off
Example
I need to finish off this report before the deadline.
Example
She finishes off her homework every night before watching TV.
go off
Example
The fire alarm will go off if there is smoke.
Example
The bomb goes off at the end of the movie.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Finish off
wrap up
To complete or finish something, especially the last part of it.
Example
Let's wrap up this meeting by summarizing the key points and action items.
To finish or bring something to an end.
Example
She was able to complete the marathon after months of training and preparation.
conclude
To bring something to an end or reach a final decision or agreement.
Example
After hours of negotiation, they were able to conclude the contract and sign the deal.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Go off
explode
To burst or blow up suddenly and violently.
Example
The bomb exploded and caused extensive damage to the building.
blow up
To explode or burst suddenly and violently.
Example
The fireworks blew up and lit up the night sky with colorful sparks.
To make a sudden, sharp, or explosive sound.
Example
The balloon popped and startled everyone in the room.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “finish”
Phrasal Verbs with “go”
Differences in finish off vs go off: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: finish off or go off?
In daily conversation, people use finish off more often than go off. This is because finish off is used for more common tasks such as completing a meal or finishing a project. Go off is less common and is mainly used in specific contexts such as describing an explosion or a sudden loud noise. So, while both phrases are used, finish off is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of finish off and go off
Finish off and go 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 finish off and go off
The tone of finish off and go off can differ based on context. Finish off often carries a sense of accomplishment or satisfaction when related to completing a task or finishing something, while go off typically has a sense of surprise or alarm, especially when referring to an explosion or sudden loud noise.
