Differences between finish off and hold off
Finish off means to complete something or to consume the last bit of food or drink, while hold off means to delay or postpone something.
Meanings and Definitions: finish off vs hold 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.
Hold off
- 1When bad weather doesn't appear.
The rain HELD OFF until we'd got back home.
- 2Stop someone from attacking or beating you.
Chelsea couldn't HOLD their opponents OFF and lost the game.
Usage Examples: finish off, hold 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.
hold off
Example
We need to hold off on the project until we get more funding.
Example
She holds off on making a decision until she has all the information.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Finish off
wrap up
To complete or finish something, usually a task or project.
Example
Let's wrap up this meeting so we can all get back to work.
To finish or bring something to an end.
Example
She completed the report just in time for the deadline.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Hold off
To delay or reschedule something to a later time or date.
Example
We need to postpone the meeting until next week due to scheduling conflicts.
To put off or slow down the progress of something.
Example
The construction was delayed due to bad weather conditions.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “finish”
Phrasal Verbs with “hold”
Differences in finish off vs hold off: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: finish off or hold off?
In daily conversation, people use finish off more often than hold off. This is because finish off is used for more common tasks such as finishing a project or completing a meal. Hold off is not used as much in everyday conversation. It's mainly used when we're talking about delaying something. So, while both phrases are used, finish off is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of finish off and hold off
Finish off and hold 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 hold off
The tone of finish off and hold off can differ based on context. Finish off often carries a sense of accomplishment or satisfaction when related to completing a task or consuming food, while hold off typically has a cautious or hesitant tone, especially when referring to delaying something important.
