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Phrasal verbs "head off" vs "set off"

Differences between head off and set off

Head off means to leave or depart for a destination, while set off means to start a journey or trip.

Meanings and Definitions: head off vs set off

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Head off

  • 1Stop someone or force them to change direction.

    The sheriff and his men HEADED the bandits OFF at the pass.

  • 2Prevent something bad happening.

    The company made a better offer to HEAD OFF the moves for a strike.

  • 3Leave somewhere to go to another place.

    After work, we all HEADED OFF to the pub.

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: head off, set off in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

head off

Example

The police headed off the protesters before they reached the city center.

Example

She heads off to the gym every morning before work.

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 Head off

take off

To leave or depart from a place, especially by plane.

Example

We need to take off early tomorrow morning to catch our flight.

hit the road

To start a journey or trip, especially by car.

Example

We're going to hit the road after lunch and drive to the beach.

make tracks

To leave or depart from a place quickly.

Example

It's getting late, so we should make tracks and head home.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Set off

kick off

To start an event or activity, especially a sports game.

Example

The soccer match will kick off at 7 pm tonight.

launch into

To start doing something with enthusiasm or energy.

Example

She launched into her new project with great enthusiasm and dedication.

embark on

To start a new project or journey with determination or excitement.

Example

He's planning to embark on a new career path next year.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “head”

Phrasal Verbs with “set”

Phrasal Verbs with “off”

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

Frequency in Daily Use: head off or set off?

Both phrases are commonly used in everyday conversation, but set off is slightly more common than head off. This is because set off is used not only for traveling but also for starting events or actions. Head off is mainly used when someone is leaving for a specific destination.

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

Head off and set off are both informal phrases that are suitable for casual conversations. However, set off can be used in more formal settings like business or academic contexts, while head off is less appropriate in those situations.

Tone and Implication: The Nuances of head off and set off

The tone of head off and set off can differ based on context. Head off often carries a casual and relaxed tone, while set off can have a more enthusiastic and energetic tone, especially when referring to starting a journey or event.

head off & set off: Synonyms and Antonyms

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