Help center

Phrasal verbs "stave off" vs "stay off"

Differences between stave off and stay off

Stave off means to prevent or delay something from happening, while stay off means to avoid or refrain from doing something.

Meanings and Definitions: stave off vs stay off

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Stave off

  • 1Delay, prevent something from happening.

    The medicine STAVED OFF the worst of the disease.

Stay off

  • 1To not go to or be absent from work.

    I daren’t stay off work.

  • 2To remain at a lower weight or level.

    Let’s make sure those pounds stay off.

  • 3Avoid or refrain from.

    The best advice is to stay off alcohol altogether.

Usage Examples: stave off, stay off in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

stave off

Example

We need to stave off the negative effects of climate change.

Example

She staves off her hunger by eating small snacks throughout the day.

stay off

Example

I decided to stay off social media for a week.

Example

She stays off caffeine to avoid feeling jittery.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Stave off

ward off

To prevent or protect oneself from something harmful or dangerous.

Example

She took vitamin C supplements to ward off the flu during the winter season.

put off

To postpone or delay something until a later time.

Example

He decided to put off his vacation until next year due to work commitments.

hold at bay

To keep something at a distance or under control.

Example

The firefighters worked hard to hold the flames at bay and prevent them from spreading further.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Stay off

keep away from

To avoid or stay away from someone or something.

Example

She decided to keep away from social media for a while to focus on her studies.

abstain from

To refrain from doing something, especially something that is considered unhealthy or harmful.

Example

He decided to abstain from alcohol for a month to improve his health.

steer clear of

To avoid or stay away from someone or something that is considered dangerous or risky.

Example

She always steers clear of dark alleys when walking home late at night.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “stave”

Phrasal Verbs with “off”

Differences in stave off vs stay off: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: stave off or stay off?

In daily conversation, people use stay off more often than stave off. This is because stay off is used for more common situations like avoiding certain foods or staying away from a particular place. Stave off is not used as much, but it's still a common phrase that people use in various contexts.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of stave off and stay off

Stave off and stay off are both informal phrases that are suitable for everyday interactions with friends and family. However, stave off can be used in more formal settings like business or academic contexts to convey a sense of urgency or importance.

Tone and Implication: The Nuances of stave off and stay off

The tone of stave off and stay off can differ based on context. Stave off often carries a serious or urgent tone when related to preventing something negative from happening, while stay off typically has a more casual and lighthearted tone, especially when referring to avoiding certain foods or activities.

stave off & stay off: Synonyms and Antonyms

Stay off

Synonyms

Antonyms

This content was generated with the assistance of AI technology based on RedKiwi's unique learning data. By utilizing automated AI content, we can quickly deliver a wide range of highly accurate content to users. Experience the benefits of AI by having your questions answered and receiving reliable information!