Differences between shake off and take off
Shake off means to get rid of something that is bothering or weighing you down, such as a bad mood or a cold. On the other hand, take off means to remove something from your body or to leave a place quickly.
Meanings and Definitions: shake off vs take 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.
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: shake off, take 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.
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 Shake off
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Take off
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “shake”
Phrasal Verbs with “take”
Phrasal Verbs with “off”
Differences in shake off vs take off: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: shake off or take off?
In daily conversation, people use take off more often than shake off. This is because take off is used for more common actions such as removing clothes or leaving a place. Shake off is not used as much in everyday conversation. It's mainly used when we're talking about getting rid of something negative like a bad feeling or a sickness. So, while both phrases are used, take off is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of shake off and take off
Shake 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 shake off and take off
The tone of shake off and take off can differ based on context. Shake off often carries a determined or optimistic tone when related to overcoming a challenge or negative emotion, while take off typically has a practical and casual tone, especially when referring to removing clothing or leaving a place quickly.
