Differences between rub off and rub out
Rub off means to transfer or remove a mark or substance from a surface by rubbing it, while rub out means to erase or remove something completely.
Meanings and Definitions: rub off vs rub out
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Rub off
- 1To influence or affect someone or something
Hopefully her enthusiasm will rub off on the rest of the team.
- 2To transfer or influence something onto someone else.
"Some of it should rub off on your mother," he said with surprising bitterness.
Rub out
- 1Delete ink or pencil with an eraser.
He RUBBED OUT the figure and wrote the correct one in.
- 2Kill.
The gangsters RUBBED him OUT for stealing from them.
Usage Examples: rub off, rub out in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
rub off
Example
His positive attitude rubbed off on the entire team.
Example
Her kindness rubs off on everyone she meets.
rub out
Example
She needed to rub out the mistake she made on her homework.
Example
He rubs out the incorrect answer and writes the correct one.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Rub off
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Rub out
erase
To remove or delete something completely.
Example
He used a whiteboard eraser to erase the mistakes on the board.
To remove or eliminate something from a computer or digital device.
Example
She accidentally deleted all her photos from her phone and couldn't recover them.
To destroy or wipe out something completely.
Example
The hurricane obliterated the small town, leaving nothing behind.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “rub”
Phrasal Verbs with “off”
Phrasal Verbs with “out”
Differences in rub off vs rub out: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: rub off or rub out?
In daily conversation, people use rub off more often than rub out. This is because rub off is used for more everyday tasks such as cleaning or removing a stain. Rub out is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about erasing something completely. So, while both phrases are used, rub off is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of rub off and rub out
Rub off and rub out 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 rub off and rub out
The tone of rub off and rub out can differ based on context. Rub off often carries a practical or helpful tone when related to cleaning or transferring something, while rub out typically has a serious or urgent tone, especially when referring to erasing something important or sensitive.
