Differences between sell off and sell on
Sell off means to sell something quickly and usually at a lower price than its actual value, often because the seller needs money urgently or wants to get rid of the item. On the other hand, sell on means to sell something that you have previously bought to someone else, usually for a higher price than you paid for it.
Meanings and Definitions: sell off vs sell on
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Sell off
- 1Sell a business or part of it.
They SOLD OFF their research subsidiary.
- 2Sell something cheaply because you need the money or don't need it.
She SOLD OFF her furniture before she emigrated.
Sell on
- 1Convince someone.
We managed to SELL him ON the expansion plans.
- 2Buy something then sell it to someone else.
We buy them wholesale and SELL them ON to the public.
Usage Examples: sell off, sell on in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
sell off
Example
The company decided to sell off its manufacturing division.
Example
He sells off his investments when he needs cash.
sell on
Example
We sell on the products to our customers after buying them from the manufacturer.
Example
The store sells on the items at a higher price than they bought them for.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Sell off
liquidate
To sell off all assets, usually to pay off debts or close a business.
Example
The company had to liquidate its inventory to pay off its creditors.
To sell something at a low price, often below its actual value.
Example
He had to dump his stocks at a loss because of the market crash.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Sell on
To sell something that you have previously bought to someone else, usually for a profit.
Example
He bought the vintage watch for $100 and resold it for $500 to a collector.
To buy something with the intention of reselling it quickly for a profit.
Example
He flipped the house he bought for $200,000 and sold it for $300,000 within a month.
Differences in sell off vs sell on: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: sell off or sell on?
In everyday conversation, sell off is more commonly used than sell on. This is because selling off items happens more frequently in daily life, such as selling off old furniture or clothes. Selling on items is less common and usually happens in specific contexts like business or trading.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of sell off and sell on
Sell off and sell on are both informal phrases used in casual conversations. They are suitable for everyday interactions 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 sell off and sell on
The tone of sell off and sell on can differ based on context. Sell off often carries a sense of urgency or desperation, while sell on typically has a more opportunistic or entrepreneurial tone.
