Differences between go off and go out
Go off usually means to explode or make a loud noise suddenly, whereas go out generally means to leave one's home or usual place to go somewhere else, especially for social reasons.
Meanings and Definitions: go off vs go out
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
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.
Go out
- 1Stop burning, be extinguished.
The candle WENT OUT and left us in darkness.
- 2Leave a place.
He WENT OUT last night.
- 3Go on strike.
The workers WENT OUT for more money.
- 4Become infashionable.
That sort of the WENT OUT last year.
- 5Move backwards, of a tide.
The tide GOES OUT in the evening.
- 6Be eliminated in a competition.
England WENT OUT in the second round.
- 7Be transmitted.
The item WENT OUT on the news yesterday.
- 8Be sent.
The newsletter WENT OUT last night.
- 9Intend.
I didn't GO OUT to offend them.
Usage Examples: go off, go out in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
go off
Example
The fire alarm will go off if there is smoke.
Example
The bomb goes off at the end of the movie.
go out
Example
I usually go out with my friends on weekends.
Example
She goes out for a walk every morning.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Go off
blow up
To explode or burst violently.
Example
The fireworks blew up in the sky, creating a beautiful display of colors.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Go out
head out
To leave one's current location and go somewhere else, especially for a specific purpose.
Example
He had to head out early to catch his flight to New York for a business meeting.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “go”
Phrasal Verbs with “off”
Phrasal Verbs with “out”
Differences in go off vs go out: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: go off or go out?
In daily conversation, people use go out more often than go off. This is because go out is used for more daily tasks and routines such as going to work or meeting friends. Go off is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about sudden events like alarms or fireworks. So, while both phrases are used, go out is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of go off and go out
Go off and go out 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 off and go out
The tone of go off and go out can differ based on context. Go off often carries a surprised or alarmed tone when related to sudden events, while go out typically has a social and casual tone, especially when referring to meeting friends or going on a date.
