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Phrasal verbs "shake off" vs "switch off"

Differences between shake off and switch off

Shake off means to get rid of something, such as a feeling or an illness, while switch off means to turn off a device or stop paying attention to something.

Meanings and Definitions: shake off vs switch off

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Shake off

  • 1Get rid of an illness.

    It took me ages to SHAKE OFF the cough.

Switch off

  • 1To stop paying attention or lose interest.

    He just switches off and ignores me.

  • 2To turn off.

    Now stop agonising, stop thinking about wretched Desmond and switch off.

Usage Examples: shake off, switch off in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

shake off

Example

She is trying to shake off her bad mood.

Example

He shakes off his nervousness before giving a speech.

switch off

Example

Please switch off the lights before you leave.

Example

She switches off her phone during meetings.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Shake off

get over

To recover from a difficult or unpleasant experience or emotion.

Example

It took her a while to get over the breakup, but she eventually moved on and found happiness.

brush off

To dismiss or ignore something that is not important or relevant.

Example

He decided to brush off the negative comments and focus on his goals instead.

cast off

To get rid of something that is no longer needed or wanted.

Example

She decided to cast off her old clothes and donate them to charity.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Switch off

tune out

To stop paying attention to something or someone.

Example

She decided to tune out the noise and focus on her work.

power down

To turn off or shut down a device or machine.

Example

Before leaving the office, he made sure to power down his computer and other devices.

log off

To sign out or disconnect from an online account or platform.

Example

After finishing her work, she remembered to log off her email and social media accounts.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “shake”

Phrasal Verbs with “switch”

Phrasal Verbs with “off”

Differences in shake off vs switch off: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: shake off or switch off?

In daily conversation, people use switch off more often than shake off. This is because switch off is used for more daily tasks and routines such as turning off the TV or phone. Shake off is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about getting rid of something negative like a bad mood or a cold. So, while both phrases are used, switch off is more common in everyday conversation.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of shake off and switch off

Shake off and switch 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 shake off and switch off

The tone of shake off and switch off can differ based on context. Shake off often carries a determined or optimistic tone when related to overcoming a challenge or negative feeling, while switch off typically has a practical and casual tone, especially when referring to turning off a device or disengaging from a conversation.

shake off & switch off: Synonyms and Antonyms

Shake off

Synonyms

Antonyms

Switch off

Synonyms

Antonyms

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