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Phrasal verbs "frighten away" vs "frighten off"

Differences between frighten away and frighten off

Frighten away and frighten off are similar in meaning, but there is a slight difference in their usage. Frighten away is used when someone or something is scared and runs away from the source of fear, while frighten off is used when someone or something is scared and retreats to a safe distance.

Meanings and Definitions: frighten away vs frighten off

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Frighten away

  • 1Scare someone so much that they go away.

    The noise FRIGHTENED the birds AWAY.

  • 2Scare or worry someone enough to stop them doing something they had planned.

    The strikes FRIGHTENED many visitors AWAY.

Frighten off

  • 1Scare someone so much that they go away.

    The dog FRIGHTENED the burglars OFF.

  • 2Scare or worry someone enough to stop them doing something they had planned.

    The crash in share prices FRIGHTENED investors OFF.

Usage Examples: frighten away, frighten off in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

frighten away

Example

The dog's barking frightened away the intruder.

Example

The sudden thunderstorm frightens away the tourists.

frighten off

Example

The loud noise frightened off the birds.

Example

He frightens off the stray cats with a spray bottle.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Frighten away

scare off

To cause someone or something to become frightened and run away.

Example

The loud noise from the fireworks scared off the birds from the trees.

drive away

To force someone or something to leave a place or situation.

Example

The bad weather drove away many tourists from the beach.

chase away

To pursue someone or something with the intention of making them leave.

Example

The guard dog chased away the burglars from the house.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Frighten off

keep at bay

To prevent someone or something from coming too close or causing harm.

Example

The strong fence kept the wild animals at bay and protected the crops.

ward off

To prevent or protect oneself from something harmful or dangerous.

Example

She wore a mask to ward off the flu virus during the pandemic.

deter from

To discourage or prevent someone from doing something.

Example

The high cost of the product deterred many customers from buying it.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “frighten”

Phrasal Verbs with “away”

Phrasal Verbs with “off”

Differences in frighten away vs frighten off: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: frighten away or frighten off?

Both frighten away and frighten off are commonly used in daily conversations, but frighten off is slightly more common.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of frighten away and frighten off

Both frighten away and frighten off are informal phrases that are suitable for everyday interactions with friends and family. However, in more formal settings like business or academic contexts, using alternative expressions can convey a more polished tone.

Tone and Implication: The Nuances of frighten away and frighten off

The tone of frighten away and frighten off can differ based on context. Frighten away often carries a more aggressive or forceful tone, while frighten off typically has a more passive or defensive tone.

frighten away & frighten off: Synonyms and Antonyms

Frighten away

Synonyms

Frighten off

Synonyms

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