What are the definitions of “fend off”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Resist something successfully.
He managed to FEND OFF the criticism in the press.
- 2Push an attacker away.
She FENDED OFF the dog when it attacked her.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “fend off”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb fend off is to resist or defend against something, such as an attack or criticism. It can be used to describe a person's ability to protect themselves or avoid harm.
What are the different verb forms of “fend off”?
| Root Verb | fend off |
| Third Person Singular Present | fends off |
| Present Participle | fending off |
| Simple Past | fended off |
| Past Participle | fended off |
Example
He tried to fend off the angry crowd.
Example
She fends off the unwanted attention with a smile.
Example
They are fending off the competition to win the contract.
Example
He fended off the attacker with a stick.
Example
She had fended off many challenges to her position.
What kind of phrasal verb is “fend 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
“fend 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
He fended off the criticism.
Example
She fended off the attacker.
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
“fend 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
He fended off the criticism.
Example
She fended off the attacker.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “fend off”?
To resist or overcome competition in business or sports.
Example
The company had to fend off competition from new startups.
Good things to know
Does “fend off” have an informal or formal tone?
Fend 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 settings, such as business meetings or academic discussions.
