Differences between touch down and touch off
Touch down means to land on the ground, especially for an airplane or a bird. On the other hand, touch off means to trigger or start something, usually a chain of events or a reaction.
Meanings and Definitions: touch down vs touch off
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Touch down
- 1Land ( planes ).
The plane TOUCHED DOWN at Narita airport an hour late.
Touch off
- 1Cause a problem to occur.
The government's decision TOUCHED OFF riots in the capital.
Usage Examples: touch down, touch off in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
touch down
Example
The plane touched down safely after a long flight.
Example
The airplane touches down at the airport in the evening.
touch off
Example
The news touched off a series of protests.
Example
His comment touches off a heated debate.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Touch down
To arrive on the ground, especially for an airplane or a spacecraft.
Example
The plane will land at the airport in 10 minutes.
To reach a destination or a place after traveling.
Example
We finally arrived at the hotel after a long journey.
To come to rest or land in a particular place.
Example
The bird settled on the branch and started singing.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Touch off
To ignite or start a fire or a flame.
Example
The cigarette butt sparked a fire in the dry grass.
To cause something to happen or start a chain of events.
Example
The assassination of the president triggered a wave of protests and violence.
To begin or start something, especially a process or a plan.
Example
The company decided to initiate a new marketing campaign to attract more customers.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “touch”
Phrasal Verbs with “down”
- shoot down
- settle down
- wear down
- chow down
- stick down
Phrasal Verbs with “off”
Differences in touch down vs touch off: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: touch down or touch off?
In everyday conversation, touch down is more common than touch off. This is because touch down is used in various contexts such as sports, aviation, and nature. Touch off, on the other hand, is less common and mostly used in specific situations like discussing the cause of an event or the beginning of a conflict.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of touch down and touch off
Touch down and touch off are both informal phrases that can be used in casual conversations. However, touch off can also be used in more formal settings like news reports or academic papers when discussing the cause of an event or a phenomenon.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of touch down and touch off
The tone of touch down and touch off can differ based on context. Touch down often carries a sense of relief or accomplishment when referring to a successful landing or arrival. In contrast, touch off can have a negative or explosive tone when referring to the start of a conflict or a series of events.
