Phrasal verbs "run off" vs "tail off"

Differences between run off and tail off

Run off means to leave a place quickly, especially when you're in a hurry or trying to escape from someone or something. Tail off means to gradually decrease in amount or intensity.

Meanings and Definitions: run off vs tail off

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Run off

  • 1Make photocopies.

    RUN OFF two hundred copies Could you of this report, please.

Tail off

  • 1Become silent or inaudible.

    The voices TAILED OFF when she entered.

  • 2Decrease.

    Profits TAILED OFF sharply in the last quarter of the year as a result of the increase in the price of oil.

Usage Examples: run off, tail off in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

run off

Example

Please run off fifty copies of the flyer for the event.

Example

She runs off the meeting agenda every week.

tail off

Example

The music tailed off as the party ended.

Example

Her voice tails off when she gets nervous.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Run off

make a quick exit

To leave a place quickly and suddenly.

Example

She had to make a quick exit from the party when she realized her ex-boyfriend was there.

To run away suddenly and quickly.

Example

The cat bolted out of the room when it heard the loud noise.

To run away from danger or a threatening situation.

Example

The villagers had to flee their homes when the volcano erupted.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Tail off

To gradually become less intense or loud.

Example

The wind died down after the storm passed.

To gradually decrease in amount or intensity.

Example

The number of visitors to the museum tapered off after the summer season ended.

To become smaller or less important over time.

Example

The company's profits diminished after the new competitor entered the market.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “run”

Phrasal Verbs with “tail”

Phrasal Verbs with “off”

Differences in run off vs tail off: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: run off or tail off?

In daily conversation, people use run off more often than tail off. This is because run off is used for more urgent situations such as leaving work early or escaping danger. Tail off is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about the gradual decrease of something. So, while both phrases are used, run off is more common in everyday conversation.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of run off and tail off

Run off and tail 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 run off and tail off

The tone of run off and tail off can differ based on context. Run off often carries an urgent or panicked tone when related to leaving quickly, while tail off typically has a calm and gradual tone, especially when referring to decreasing sound or intensity.

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