Differences between shrug off and tell off
Shrug off means to dismiss or ignore something, usually a problem or criticism, while tell off means to scold or reprimand someone for their behavior or actions.
Meanings and Definitions: shrug off vs tell off
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Shrug off
- 1Disregard something, not consider it important or harmful.
He SHRUGGED OFF the criticism and carried on the same way.
Tell off
- 1Chide; talk angrily to someone about something they've done wrong..
His fiancée TOLD him OFF for arriving nearly an hour late.
Usage Examples: shrug off, tell off in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
shrug off
Example
She always shrugs off negative comments from others.
Example
He shrugs off the criticism and continues working.
tell off
Example
She tells off her children when they misbehave.
Example
He tells off his employees for not following the rules.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Shrug off
To pay no attention to something or treat it as unimportant.
Example
He chose to disregard the warning signs and ended up regretting it later.
To refuse to acknowledge or pay attention to something or someone.
Example
She tried to ignore the pain in her ankle, hoping it would go away on its own.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Tell off
rebuke
To express sharp disapproval or criticism of someone's behavior or actions.
Example
The teacher had to rebuke the student for cheating on the exam.
To criticize or reprimand someone for their behavior or actions.
Example
She scolded her son for not doing his homework and playing video games instead.
To formally or officially rebuke or criticize someone for their behavior or actions.
Example
The manager reprimanded the employee for being late to work multiple times.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “tell”
Phrasal Verbs with “off”
Differences in shrug off vs tell off: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: shrug off or tell off?
In daily conversation, people use shrug off more often than tell off. This is because shrug off is used for more casual situations where we want to downplay the importance of something. Tell off is not used as much, and when it is, it's usually in more serious situations where someone needs to be corrected or disciplined. So, while both phrases are used, shrug off is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of shrug off and tell off
Shrug off and tell 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 shrug off and tell off
The tone of shrug off and tell off can differ based on context. Shrug off often carries a nonchalant or indifferent tone when dismissing something, while tell off typically has a stern or angry tone when reprimanding someone for their behavior.
shrug off & tell off: Synonyms and Antonyms
Shrug off
Antonyms
- acknowledge
- address
- consider
- emphasize
- heed
- focus on
- take seriously
- pay attention to
