What are the definitions of “call off”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Cancel.
The concert had to be CALLED OFF because the singer went down with a bad case of flu.
- 2Order someone to stop attacking.
CALL OFF your lawyers; we can work something out.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “call off”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb call off is to cancel an event, plan, or agreement. It is often used when something cannot happen as planned due to unforeseen circumstances or changes.
What are the different verb forms of “call off”?
| Root Verb | call off |
| Third Person Singular Present | calls off |
| Present Participle | calling off |
| Simple Past | called off |
| Past Participle | called off |
Example
They decided to call off the meeting due to bad weather.
Example
She calls off the party because of the sudden rainstorm.
Example
He is calling off the trip because he is not feeling well.
Example
Yesterday, they called off the event because of a power outage.
Example
The wedding was called off after the couple had a big argument.
What kind of phrasal verb is “call 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
“call 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 manager called off the meeting.
Example
She called the party off due to the rain.
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
“call 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 manager called off the meeting.
Example
She called the party off due to the rain.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “call off”?
Good things to know
Does “call off” have an informal or formal tone?
Call off is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal situations. It is commonly used in everyday conversations, as well as in more formal settings, such as business meetings or official announcements.
