What are the definitions of “bump off”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Kill.
The drug dealer was BUMPED OFF by a rival gang.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “bump off”?
The phrasal verb bump off is commonly used to mean to kill someone. It is often used in the context of crime stories or movies. For example, a gangster might bump off a rival gang member.
What are the different verb forms of “bump off”?
| Root Verb | bump off |
| Third Person Singular Present | bumps off |
| Present Participle | bumping off |
| Simple Past | bumped off |
| Past Participle | bumped off |
Example
The mob boss ordered his henchman to bump off the informant.
Example
In the movie, the villain bumps off his enemies without remorse.
Example
The detective is investigating a serial killer who has been bumping off victims across the city.
Example
The spy bumped off the enemy agent to protect the secret information.
Example
The witness who was bumped off had crucial evidence against the criminal.
What kind of phrasal verb is “bump 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
“bump 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
The gangster bumped off his rival.
Example
The assassin bumped the target off quickly and silently.
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
“bump 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
The gangster bumped off his rival.
Example
The assassin bumped the target off quickly and silently.
Good things to know
Does “bump off” have an informal or formal tone?
Bump off is an informal phrasal verb. It is often used in casual conversations, crime stories, or movies. It is not typically used in formal writing or professional settings. For example, a news report would likely use the term 'murdered' or 'killed' instead of bumped off.
