Differences between set off and turn off

Set off means to start a journey or trip, while turn off means to stop a machine or device or to make someone lose interest in something.

Meanings and Definitions: set off vs turn 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.

Turn off

1Stop a machine.
I TURNED the TV OFF and went to bed.

Usage Examples: set off, turn 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.

turn off

Example

Please turn off the lights before you leave the room.

Example

She turns off her phone during meetings.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Set off

embark on

To start or begin a journey or trip.

Example

We embarked on a road trip across the country and saw many beautiful sights along the way.

start out

To begin a journey or trip.

Example

We started out early in the morning to avoid traffic and reach our destination on time.

hit the road

To start a journey or trip, especially by car.

Example

We hit the road after packing our bags and saying goodbye to our family and friends.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Turn off

switch off

To stop the operation of a machine or device by turning off a switch or button.

Example

Don't forget to switch off the lights before leaving the room to save energy.

lose interest in

To stop being interested or engaged in something.

Example

I lost interest in the book after the first few chapters because it was too slow-paced.

put off

To discourage or dissuade someone from doing something.

Example

His rude behavior put me off from attending the party and I decided to stay home instead.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “set”

Phrasal Verbs with “turn”

Phrasal Verbs with “off”

Differences in set off vs turn off: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: set off or turn off?

In daily conversation, people use turn off more often than set off. This is because turn off is used for more daily tasks and routines such as turning off the lights or turning off the TV. Set off is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about starting a journey or trip. So, while both phrases are used, turn off is more common in everyday conversation.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of set off and turn off

Set off and turn 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 turn off

The tone of set off and turn off can differ based on context. Set off often carries an excited or adventurous tone when related to starting a journey or trip, while turn off typically has a negative or disinterested tone, especially when referring to stopping a machine or losing interest in something.

set off & turn off: Synonyms and Antonyms

Set off

Synonyms

Antonyms

arrive
end
complete
cease
halt
stop
finish
terminate

Turn off

Synonyms

stop
disable
switch off
shut off
deactivate
power down
cut off

Antonyms

activate
start
enable
turn on
switch on
power up