What does the phrasal verb “fall off” mean?

What are the definitions of “fall off”?

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

• 1. Decrease.

  The membership FELL OFF dramatically when the chairperson resigned.

What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “fall off”?

The most common meaning of the phrasal verb fall off is to decrease in number, amount, or intensity. It can be used to describe a decline in sales, a drop in temperature, or a reduction in the number of people attending an event.

What are the different verb forms of “fall off”?

Root Verb	fall off
Third Person Singular Present	falls off
Present Participle	falling off
Simple Past	fell off
Past Participle	fallen off

Example

The number of visitors to the park falls off during the winter months.

Example

The temperature falls off quickly after the sun sets.

Example

The sales are falling off due to the economic downturn.

Example

The membership fell off dramatically when the chairperson resigned.

Example

The quality of the product has fallen off since the company changed ownership.

What kind of phrasal verb is “fall off”?

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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.)

Intransitive verb

“fall off” is an intransitive phrasal verb because it doesn't require an object to complete its meaning. It forms a complete sentence without an object.

Example

The number of tourists falls off during the rainy season.

Example

The demand for the product fell off after the negative reviews.

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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

“fall 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 number of tourists falls off during the rainy season.

Example

The demand for the product fell off after the negative reviews.

What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “fall off”?

Fall off the wagon

To return to a bad habit or addiction after a period of abstinence.

Example

He was doing well with his sobriety, but unfortunately, he fell off the wagon last weekend.

Fall off the radar

To disappear or become less noticeable, especially in terms of popularity or public attention.

Example

After her hit song, the singer seemed to fall off the radar and hasn't released any new music since.

Fall off the pace

To slow down or lose ground in a race or competition.

Example

The runner fell off the pace during the last mile of the marathon.

Good things to know

Does “fall off” have an informal or formal tone?

Fall off is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is appropriate for everyday conversations, as well as more formal writing or presentations.

What are synonyms of antonyms to the phrasal verb “fall off”?

Synonyms

• decrease
• drop
• diminish
• reduce
• dwindle
• lessen
• subside
• decline

Antonyms

• increase
• rise
• grow
• improve
• enhance
• expand
• climb
• soar