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Phrasal verbs "keep off" vs "shut off"

Differences between keep off and shut off

Keep off means to avoid or stay away from something, while shut off means to turn off or stop the flow of something.

Meanings and Definitions: keep off vs shut off

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Keep off

  • 1Not talk about.

    She KEPT OFF the subject of her divorce.

  • 2Not tread on something.

    KEEP OFF the grass in the park, please.

Shut off

  • 1Close, prevent access.

    They SHUT the water OFF while they did the repairs.

Usage Examples: keep off, shut off in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

keep off

Example

Please keep off the freshly painted floor.

Example

He keeps off the grass to protect it from damage.

shut off

Example

Please shut off the lights before you leave the room.

Example

He shuts off the water supply when he goes on vacation.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Keep off

stay away from

To avoid or keep a distance from someone or something.

Example

The sign said to stay away from the construction site for safety reasons.

avoid

To prevent or stay clear of something undesirable or harmful.

Example

She tried to avoid eating too much sugar to maintain a healthy diet.

steer clear of

To avoid or keep away from someone or something that could be dangerous or problematic.

Example

He decided to steer clear of the party since he knew his ex-girlfriend would be there.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Shut off

turn off

To stop the flow of electricity or power to a device or appliance.

Example

Don't forget to turn off the lights before you leave the room.

cut off

To stop the supply or flow of something, usually abruptly.

Example

The bank cut off the loan after the borrower failed to make payments for three months.

power down

To shut off or turn off a device or machine by cutting off its power source.

Example

The technician asked us to power down our computers before he started repairing the network system.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “keep”

Phrasal Verbs with “off”

Differences in keep off vs shut off: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: keep off or shut off?

In daily conversation, people use shut off more often than keep off. This is because shut off is used for more daily tasks and routines such as turning off a light or shutting off a machine. Keep off is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about avoiding something. So, while both phrases are used, shut off is more common in everyday conversation.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of keep off and shut off

Keep off and shut 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 keep off and shut off

The tone of keep off and shut off can differ based on context. Keep off often carries a warning or cautionary tone when related to avoiding danger or trespassing, while shut off typically has a practical and casual tone, especially when referring to turning off a device or appliance.

keep off & shut off: Synonyms and Antonyms

Keep off

Synonyms

Antonyms

Shut off

Synonyms

Antonyms

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