Differences between go for and go off
Go for usually means to choose or select something, or to attempt or try something. On the other hand, go off generally means to explode, make a loud noise suddenly, or to leave a place.
Meanings and Definitions: go for vs go off
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Go for
- 1Attack.
The neighbour's dog WENT FOR the postman and bit him.
- 2Be attracted to.
She tends to GO FOR guys like him.
- 3Choose, select.
I'll GO FOR the soup of the day, followed by the duck.
- 4Try to get.
The player WENT FOR the ball but missed.
- 5Have something favourable.
The play didn't have much GOING FOR IT and we left halfway through.
- 6Pass for or serve as.
It's a couch that also GOES FOR a bed.
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: go for, go off in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
go for
Example
I will go for the blue dress for the party.
Example
She always goes for the vegetarian option at restaurants.
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 Go for
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Go off
blow up
To explode or burst suddenly, often with a loud noise.
Example
The fireworks blew up in the sky, creating a beautiful display of colors.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “go”
Phrasal Verbs with “for”
Differences in go for vs go off: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: go for or go off?
In daily conversation, people use go for more often than go off. This is because go for is used for more common situations such as choosing food or drinks, or attempting to do something. Go off is not used as much and is mainly used when talking about sudden loud noises or explosions. So, while both phrases are used, go for is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of go for and go off
Go for 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 go for and go off
The tone of go for and go off can differ based on context. Go for often carries an enthusiastic or determined tone when related to choosing or attempting something, while go off typically has a surprised or alarmed tone, especially when referring to sudden loud noises or explosions.
