Differences between put off and set off
Put off means to delay or postpone something, while set off means to start a journey or trip.
Meanings and Definitions: put off vs set off
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.
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: put off, set off 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.
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 Put off
To delay or reschedule an event or activity to a later time.
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 studying for exams, which affects his grades.
To delay or put off something until a later time or date.
Example
The company decided to defer the project launch until they could secure more funding.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Set off
To start or begin something.
Example
The ceremony will commence at 10 am sharp, so please arrive on time.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “put”
Differences in put off vs set off: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: put off or set off?
In daily conversation, people use put off more often than set off. This is because put off is used for more common situations such as delaying a meeting or task. Set off is not used as much in everyday conversation. It's mainly used when we're talking about starting a journey or trip. So, while both phrases are used, put off is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of put off and set off
Put off and set 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 put off and set off
The tone of put off and set off can differ based on context. Put off often carries a negative or regretful tone when related to delaying something important, while set off typically has an excited or adventurous tone, especially when referring to starting a journey or trip.
