What are the definitions of “bounce off”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Test ideas.
They BOUNCED ideas OFF each other in a brainstorming session.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “bounce off”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb bounce off is to test ideas or share thoughts with someone to get their opinion or feedback. It is often used in the context of brainstorming or discussing ideas with others.
What are the different verb forms of “bounce off”?
| Root Verb | bounce off |
| Third Person Singular Present | bounces off |
| Present Participle | bouncing off |
| Simple Past | bounced off |
| Past Participle | bounced off |
Example
I like to bounce off my ideas with my friends before making a decision.
Example
She bounces off her ideas with her colleagues during meetings.
Example
He is bouncing off his thoughts with his mentor to get some guidance.
Example
Yesterday, they bounced off their ideas during a brainstorming session.
Example
The team's ideas were bounced off each other, leading to a successful project.
What kind of phrasal verb is “bounce off”?
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a transitive and intransitive verb? - A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.) - An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)
Transitive verb
“bounce off” is a transitive phrasal verb because it requires a direct object to complete its meaning. The direct object specifies what is being removed, obtained, or eliminated.
Example
I bounced off my ideas with my friends.
Example
She bounced her ideas off her colleagues.
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb? - A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle. - An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.
Inseparable
“bounce off” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.
Example
I bounced off my ideas with my friends.
Example
She bounced her ideas off her colleagues.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “bounce off”?
Good things to know
Does “bounce off” have an informal or formal tone?
Bounce off is generally considered informal and is more commonly used in casual conversations or informal settings. In more formal contexts, you might use phrases like 'discuss ideas with' or 'seek feedback from' instead.
