Differences between put off and put on
Put off means to delay or postpone something, while put on means to wear or dress oneself in clothes or accessories.
Meanings and Definitions: put off vs put on
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Put off
- 1Postpone.
The concert's been PUT OFF until next month because the singer's got a throat infection.
- 2Stop liking something or somebody.
I was really PUT OFF by the way he eats with his mouth open.
Put on
- 1Get fat.
He's PUT ON a lot of weight since he gave up smoking.
- 2Deceive, lie.
I am not PUTTING you ON.
- 3Start wearing.
I PUT my coat ON before we went out.
Usage Examples: put off, put on in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
put off
Example
We need to put off the party because of the rain.
Example
She always puts off her homework until the last minute.
put on
Example
Before leaving the house, she put on her jacket.
Example
He puts on his shoes before going for a walk.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Put off
To delay an event or task until a later time or date.
Example
We had to postpone the meeting until next week due to scheduling conflicts.
To delay or avoid doing something that needs to be done.
Example
He tends to procrastinate when it comes to completing his assignments.
To arrange a new time or date for an event or appointment.
Example
We need to reschedule our flight due to bad weather conditions.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Put on
To have clothing or accessories on one's body.
Example
She likes to wear bright colors to work to boost her mood.
dress up
To wear formal or elegant clothing for a special occasion.
Example
We need to dress up for the wedding ceremony tonight.
To wear or display something with pride or enthusiasm.
Example
He likes to sport his favorite team's jersey during the games.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “put”
Phrasal Verbs with “on”
Differences in put off vs put on: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: put off or put on?
In daily conversation, people use put off more often than put on. This is because put off is used for more daily tasks and routines such as delaying a meeting or postponing a task. Put on is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about wearing clothes or accessories. So, while both phrases are used, put off is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of put off and put on
Put off and put on 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 put off and put on
The tone of put off and put on can differ based on context. Put off often carries a negative or hesitant tone when related to delaying or postponing something, while put on typically has a practical and casual tone, especially when referring to dressing oneself.
