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Phrasal verbs "hack off" vs "set off"

Differences between hack off and set off

Hack off means to cut or chop something off with a sharp tool, while set off means to start a journey or trip.

Meanings and Definitions: hack off vs set off

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Hack off

  • 1Annoy.

    He HACKS me OFF with his endless complaining.

Set off

  • 1Explode a bomb.

    Terrorists SET OFF a car bomb in the city centre last night. Fortunately, no - one was hurt or killed.

  • 2Ring an alarm.

    The smoke SET the fire alarm OFF.

  • 3Start a journey.

    We SET OFF for work at seven - thirty.

  • 4Counterbalance a debt.

    The company SET OFF its overseas debts against it profits at home.

  • 5Provide a visual contrast that looks good.

    The dark frame SETS the pale drawing OFF well.

  • 6Cause, trigger events.

    The pay freeze SET OFF a wave of strikes.

Usage Examples: hack off, set off in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

hack off

Example

His constant whining hacks me off.

Example

She hacks off her friends with her constant gossiping.

set off

Example

We set off for our vacation early in the morning.

Example

She sets off for work at 7:30 every day.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Hack off

chop off

To cut something off with a sharp tool or instrument.

Example

He had to chop off the broken branch from the tree to prevent it from falling on someone.

cut away

To remove or separate something by cutting it with a sharp tool.

Example

The surgeon had to cut away the damaged tissue to save the patient's life.

sever

To cut or break something apart, usually with force or violence.

Example

The earthquake severed the bridge, making it impossible to cross the river.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Set off

embark on

To start or begin a journey or trip.

Example

They embarked on a road trip across the country, visiting different cities and landmarks.

take off

To leave or depart, usually by plane or other means of transportation.

Example

The flight took off on time, despite the bad weather conditions.

hit the road

To start a journey or trip, usually by car or other land transportation.

Example

We need to hit the road early if we want to arrive at the beach before sunset.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “hack”

Phrasal Verbs with “set”

Phrasal Verbs with “off”

Differences in hack off vs set off: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: hack off or set off?

In daily conversation, people use set off more often than hack off. This is because set off is used for more common activities like traveling, going on a trip, or starting a journey. Hack off is not used as much in everyday conversation. It's mainly used when we're talking about cutting or chopping something.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of hack off and set off

Hack off and set 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 hack off and set off

The tone of hack off and set off can differ based on context. Hack off often carries a negative or aggressive tone when related to cutting or chopping something, while set off typically has a positive and adventurous tone, especially when referring to starting a journey or trip.

hack off & set off: Synonyms and Antonyms

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