Phrasal verbs "see off" vs "show off"

Differences between see off and show off

See off means to accompany someone to their departure point, such as a train station or airport, and say goodbye. Show off means to display one's abilities, possessions, or achievements in a boastful or attention-seeking manner.

Meanings and Definitions: see off vs show off

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

See off

  • 1Chase somebody or something away.

    A cat came into the back garden but the dog soon SAW it OFF.

  • 2Go to the airport, station, etc., to say goodbye to someone.

    I went to the station to SEE them OFF.

Show off

  • 1Behave in a way so as to attract attention.

    The children were SHOWING OFF and irritated me.

  • 2Display something you are proud of.

    He wanted to SHOW OFF his new sound system.

  • 3Make the qualities of another thing more apparent.

    The shirt really SHOWED OFF his new tie.

Usage Examples: see off, show off in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

see off

Example

I will see off my friend at the airport tomorrow.

Example

She sees off her husband at the train station every time he goes on a business trip.

show off

Example

She always shows off her cooking skills at parties.

Example

He shows off his new car to everyone he meets.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of See off

To say goodbye to someone who is leaving.

Example

We went to the airport to bid farewell to our friend who was moving to another country.

escort to the gate

To accompany someone to the departure gate at an airport.

Example

I always ask my husband to escort me to the gate when I travel alone.

send on one's way

To help someone start their journey by saying goodbye and wishing them well.

Example

We sent him on his way with a warm hug and some snacks for the road trip.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Show off

To talk about one's achievements or possessions in a boastful manner.

Example

He always brags about his expensive car and designer clothes.

To display one's possessions or abilities in a showy or ostentatious manner.

Example

She likes to flaunt her wealth by wearing expensive jewelry and driving a sports car.

To talk with excessive pride about one's achievements, possessions, or abilities.

Example

He never misses a chance to boast about his successful business and luxurious lifestyle.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “see”

Phrasal Verbs with “show”

Phrasal Verbs with “off”

Differences in see off vs show off: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: see off or show off?

In daily conversation, people use see off more often than show off. This is because see off is a common practice when someone is leaving, and it's considered polite to see them off. Show off, on the other hand, has a negative connotation and is not used as frequently in everyday conversation.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of see off and show off

See off and show off are both informal phrases that are suitable for casual conversations. However, show off can be seen as impolite or arrogant in certain contexts, so it's best to avoid using it in formal settings.

Tone and Implication: The Nuances of see off and show off

The tone of see off is generally polite and friendly, while the tone of show off can be negative or boastful depending on the context.

see off & show off: Synonyms and Antonyms

See off

Synonyms

  • repel
  • bid farewell
  • say goodbye
  • send off
  • chase away
  • scare off

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