Differences between make off and make off with
Make off means to leave quickly or escape from a place, while make off with means to steal something and then leave quickly.
Meanings and Definitions: make off vs make off with
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Make off
- 1Leave somewhere in a hurry.
They MADE OFF when they heard the police siren.
Make off with
- 1Steal.
Thieves MADE OFF WITH over a million dollars in the robbery.
Usage Examples: make off, make off with in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
make off
Example
The thieves made off with the stolen goods.
Example
He makes off as soon as he sees the security guard.
make off with
Example
The burglar made off with the family's valuable jewelry.
Example
He makes off with the stolen money before the police arrive.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Make off
To run away quickly, often in a panicked or sudden manner.
Example
When the dog started barking, the rabbit bolted from its hiding spot.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Make off with
To take something that doesn't belong to you without permission.
Example
Someone broke into the store and stole all the electronics.
To steal something quickly and discreetly.
Example
She swiped a candy bar from the store and quickly left before anyone noticed.
To steal something small or of little value.
Example
The employee was caught pilfering office supplies from the company's storage room.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “make”
Phrasal Verbs with “off”
Phrasal Verbs with “off with”
Differences in make off vs make off with: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: make off or make off with?
In everyday conversation, people use make off less often than make off with. This is because make off is used for situations where someone is leaving quickly, which may not come up as frequently in daily life. Make off with is more common because it's used when someone has stolen something, which unfortunately happens more often.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of make off and make off with
Make off and make off with 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 make off and make off with
The tone of make off and make off with can differ based on context. Make off can have a neutral or slightly negative tone, depending on the situation. For example, if someone makes off with a prize, it could be seen as exciting or impressive. However, if someone makes off with money from a cash register, it would be seen as negative. Make off with typically has a negative tone, as it involves stealing something.
