Differences between tell off and tick off
Tell off and tick off are both phrasal verbs that express disapproval or criticism, but tell off is more direct and confrontational, while tick off is more informal and less severe.
Meanings and Definitions: tell off vs tick off
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Tell off
- 1Chide; talk angrily to someone about something they've done wrong..
His fiancée TOLD him OFF for arriving nearly an hour late.
Tick off
- 1Annoy.
She really TICKS me OFF when she doesn't reply to my emails.
- 2Scold.
He TICKED me OFF for arriving late.
- 3Put a mark on an item in a list when it has been dealt with.
She TICKED OFF our names when we arrived.
Usage Examples: tell off, tick off in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
tell off
Example
She tells off her children when they misbehave.
Example
He tells off his employees for not following the rules.
tick off
Example
I always tick off the tasks on my to-do list after completing them.
Example
She ticks off the items on her shopping list as she buys them.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Tell off
To criticize or reprimand someone for doing something wrong or inappropriate.
Example
The teacher scolded the student for not completing his homework.
rebuke
To express sharp disapproval or criticism towards someone for their behavior or actions.
Example
The manager rebuked the employee for arriving late to work.
To formally criticize or scold someone for their behavior or actions.
Example
The police officer reprimanded the driver for speeding on the highway.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Tick off
To bring someone's attention back to something they need to do or remember.
Example
Can you remind me to call my mom later?
To gently scold or reprimand someone for their behavior or actions.
Example
She chided her friend for being late to their meeting.
To repeatedly remind or complain about something to someone.
Example
My mom always nags me to clean my room.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “tell”
Phrasal Verbs with “tick”
- tick away
- tick along
- tick by
- tick over
Phrasal Verbs with “off”
Differences in tell off vs tick off: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: tell off or tick off?
Both tell off and tick off are commonly used in spoken English, but tick off is more informal and often used in casual conversations. Tell off is more formal and usually used in situations where someone has done something wrong or inappropriate.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of tell off and tick off
Tell off is more formal than tick off. It's often used in professional settings such as the workplace or in schools. Tick off is more informal and suitable for everyday interactions with friends and family.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of tell off and tick off
The tone of tell off is usually serious and stern, while tick off is more lighthearted and playful. Tell off can come across as aggressive or confrontational, while tick off is more like a friendly reminder.
