Differences between see off and take off
See off means to say goodbye to someone who is leaving, usually at a train station or airport. Take off means to leave a place, especially by plane.
Meanings and Definitions: see off vs take 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.
Take off
- 1Make great progress.
The software house really TOOK OFF when they produced the latest version of their DTP package.
- 2Reduce the price of an item.
They've TAKEN ten percent OFF designer frames for glasses.
- 3When a plane departs or leaves the ground.
The flight for Dublin TOOK OFF on time.
- 4Remove.
It was hot, so I TOOK my jacket OFF.
Usage Examples: see off, take 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.
take off
Example
The plane is scheduled to take off at 3 pm.
Example
The airplane takes off in 30 minutes.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of See off
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Take off
To leave a place, especially by plane.
Example
Our flight is scheduled to depart at 7 pm, so we need to be at the airport by 5 pm.
head out
To leave a place or start a journey.
Example
We need to head out soon if we want to catch the last train home.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “see”
Phrasal Verbs with “take”
Phrasal Verbs with “off”
Differences in see off vs take off: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: see off or take off?
Both see off and take off are commonly used in everyday conversation. However, take off is more frequently used than see off. This is because air travel is more common nowadays, and people use this phrasal verb to refer to their own or others' departures.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of see off and take off
See off and take off are both informal phrases that are suitable for casual conversations with friends and family. However, in more formal settings like business or academic contexts, using alternative expressions can convey a more professional tone.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of see off and take off
The tone of see off and take off can differ based on context. See off often carries a sentimental or emotional tone when saying goodbye to someone, while take off typically has a practical and casual tone, especially when referring to leaving a place by plane.
