Differences between set off and take off
Set off usually means to start a journey or trip, or to cause something to start, while take off generally means to remove clothing or to leave a place quickly.
Meanings and Definitions: set off vs take off
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Set off
- 1Explode a bomb.
Terrorists SET OFF a car bomb in the city centre last night. Fortunately, no - one was hurt or killed.
- 2Ring an alarm.
The smoke SET the fire alarm OFF.
- 3Start a journey.
We SET OFF for work at seven - thirty.
- 4Counterbalance a debt.
The company SET OFF its overseas debts against it profits at home.
- 5Provide a visual contrast that looks good.
The dark frame SETS the pale drawing OFF well.
- 6Cause, trigger events.
The pay freeze SET OFF a wave of strikes.
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: set off, take off in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
set off
Example
We set off for our vacation early in the morning.
Example
She sets off for work at 7:30 every day.
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 Set off
To cause something to start or happen.
Example
The alarm clock triggered a series of events that led to him being late for work.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Take off
strip off
To remove clothing or layers from one's body.
Example
After a long day at work, she couldn't wait to strip off her uncomfortable shoes and relax.
To leave a place quickly or suddenly.
Example
When he heard the fire alarm, he bolted out of the building without grabbing his belongings.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “take”
Differences in set off vs take off: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: set off or take off?
In daily conversation, people use take off more often than set off. This is because take off is used for more common activities such as removing clothes or leaving a place. Set off is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about starting a journey or causing something to start. So, while both phrases are used, take off is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of set off and take off
Set off and take 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 set off and take off
The tone of set off and take off can differ based on context. Set off often carries an adventurous or exciting tone when related to starting a journey or trip, while take off typically has a hurried or urgent tone, especially when referring to leaving a place quickly or removing clothing.
