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Phrasal verbs "fob off" vs "square off"

Differences between fob off and square off

Fob off means to deceive or trick someone by giving them a false excuse or explanation, while square off means to settle a dispute or conflict in a fair and just manner.

Meanings and Definitions: fob off vs square off

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Fob off

  • 1Make or persuade someone to accept something.

    I FOBBED it OFF Paul.

  • 2Lie or deceive someone.

    He FOBBED us OFF with a really stupid excuse.

Square off

  • 1Confront someone or prepare to fight them.

    The two drunks SQUARED OFF and the barman had to intervene before a fight broke out.

Usage Examples: fob off, square off in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

fob off

Example

She tried to fob off the damaged goods on the unsuspecting customer.

Example

He fobs off his old clothes to his younger brother.

square off

Example

The two boxers squared off in the ring.

Example

He squares off against his opponent in the final round.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Fob off

brush off

To dismiss or ignore someone or something in a rude or abrupt manner.

Example

When she asked him about his plans for the weekend, he brushed her off and changed the subject.

palm off

To deceive or trick someone by giving them something of low quality or value.

Example

He tried to palm off his old phone on me, but I could tell it was in poor condition.

pass the buck

To avoid taking responsibility for a problem or issue by passing it on to someone else.

Example

When the customer complained about the faulty product, the company representative passed the buck to the manufacturer.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Square off

settle the score

To resolve a conflict or dispute in a way that restores fairness or justice.

Example

After years of feuding, the two families finally decided to settle the score and make peace.

iron out

To resolve or smooth out differences or problems in a relationship or situation.

Example

The couple went to counseling to iron out their communication issues and improve their relationship.

hash out

To discuss and resolve a problem or issue through negotiation or compromise.

Example

The management team had to hash out the details of the new project before presenting it to the board of directors.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “fob”

Differences in fob off vs square off: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: fob off or square off?

In everyday conversation, square off is more commonly used than fob off. This is because square off is used in a variety of situations where conflicts or disagreements need to be resolved, while fob off is a more specific phrase used when someone is trying to avoid responsibility or deceive someone else.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of fob off and square off

Square off is a relatively informal phrase that can be used in both casual and professional settings. On the other hand, fob off is a more informal phrase that is typically used in casual conversations with friends and family.

Tone and Implication: The Nuances of fob off and square off

The tone of fob off is often negative or suspicious, as it implies that someone is being dishonest or evasive. In contrast, the tone of square off is generally neutral or positive, as it suggests that a conflict or disagreement is being resolved in a fair and just manner.

fob off & square off: Synonyms and Antonyms

Fob off

Synonyms

Antonyms

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