Help center

Phrasal verbs "keep off" vs "touch off"

Differences between keep off and touch off

Keep off means to avoid or stay away from something, while touch off means to trigger or cause something to happen.

Meanings and Definitions: keep off vs touch 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.

Touch off

  • 1Cause a problem to occur.

    The government's decision TOUCHED OFF riots in the capital.

Usage Examples: keep off, touch 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.

touch off

Example

The news touched off a series of protests.

Example

His comment touches off a heated debate.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Keep off

stay away from

To avoid or not go near a person, place, or thing.

Example

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

steer clear of

To avoid or keep away from something that could be harmful or unpleasant.

Example

She decided to steer clear of the party since she didn't know anyone there and felt uncomfortable.

give a wide berth to

To avoid or keep a safe distance from someone or something.

Example

He always gave a wide berth to his boss's office to avoid being asked to do extra work.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Touch off

set off

To cause something to start or happen.

Example

The fireworks set off a chain reaction of car alarms in the neighborhood.

spark

To ignite or trigger a sudden reaction or emotion.

Example

His careless comment sparked a heated argument between the two coworkers.

trigger

To cause a particular response or action.

Example

The loud noise triggered her fear of thunderstorms and made her hide under the bed.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “keep”

Phrasal Verbs with “touch”

Phrasal Verbs with “off”

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

Frequency in Daily Use: keep off or touch off?

In daily conversation, people use keep off more often than touch off. This is because keep off is used for more common situations such as warning someone to stay away from a dangerous area or to avoid a topic in a conversation. Touch off is less common and usually used in more specific contexts.

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

Keep off and touch off are both 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 touch off

The tone of keep off and touch off can differ based on context. Keep off often carries a warning or protective tone when related to avoiding danger or conflict, while touch off typically has a more neutral or descriptive tone, especially when referring to triggering events or reactions.

keep off & touch off: Synonyms and Antonyms

Keep off

Synonyms

Antonyms

This content was generated with the assistance of AI technology based on RedKiwi's unique learning data. By utilizing automated AI content, we can quickly deliver a wide range of highly accurate content to users. Experience the benefits of AI by having your questions answered and receiving reliable information!