Differences between take off and write off
Take off usually means to remove something from your body or to leave a place, especially by air. On the other hand, write off generally means to cancel or eliminate a debt or an asset from a balance sheet.
Meanings and Definitions: take off vs write off
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
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.
Write off
- 1Destroy a car in an accident.
He WROTE the car OFF in an accident on the motorway.
Usage Examples: take off, write off in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
take off
Example
The plane is scheduled to take off at 3 pm.
Example
The airplane takes off in 30 minutes.
write off
Example
She wrote off her car in a terrible accident.
Example
He writes off cars for a living as a stunt driver.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Take off
To take something away from a person or place.
Example
She removed her shoes before entering the house.
To leave a place, especially by air.
Example
The plane is scheduled to depart at 8 pm.
strip off
To take off clothes or layers of something.
Example
He stripped off his shirt and jumped into the pool.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Write off
To decide that something will not happen or be valid.
Example
The concert was cancelled due to bad weather.
To reduce the value of an asset over time.
Example
The car's value depreciated significantly after being driven for several years.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “take”
Phrasal Verbs with “write”
Phrasal Verbs with “off”
Differences in take off vs write off: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: take off or write off?
In daily conversation, people use take off more often than write off. This is because take off is used for more daily tasks and routines such as getting dressed or leaving a place. Write off is not used as much in everyday conversation. It's mainly used in financial or business contexts. So, while both phrases are used, take off is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of take off and write off
Take off and write off are informal phrases often used in casual conversations. They are suitable for everyday interactions with friends and family. However, write off is also used in formal settings like business or academic contexts, while take off is not.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of take off and write off
The tone of take off and write off can differ based on context. Take off often carries a practical or excited tone when related to leaving a place or taking off clothes, while write off typically has a serious and formal tone, especially when referring to financial matters.