What are the definitions of “cast off”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Dispose, get rid of.
They CAST OFF any semblance of politeness and attacked us viciously.
- 2Untie a boat so it's free to sail.
They CAST OFF and headed out to sea.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “cast off”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb cast off is to dispose of or get rid of something. It can be used to describe throwing away unwanted items or letting go of negative emotions or behaviors.
What are the different verb forms of “cast off”?
| Root Verb | cast off |
| Third Person Singular Present | casts off |
| Present Participle | casting off |
| Simple Past | cast off |
| Past Participle | cast off |
Example
She decided to cast off her old clothes and buy new ones.
Example
He casts off his worries and enjoys the weekend.
Example
They are casting off their old habits and starting fresh.
Example
Yesterday, she cast off her doubts and took a chance.
Example
The old furniture was cast off and replaced with new pieces.
What kind of phrasal verb is “cast 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
“cast 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
She cast off her old clothes.
Example
They cast off their doubts and fears.
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
“cast 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
She cast off her old clothes.
Example
They cast off their doubts and fears.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “cast off”?
Good things to know
Does “cast off” have an informal or formal tone?
Cast off is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is commonly used in everyday conversations and can also be found in written language, such as articles and literature.
