What does the phrasal verb “pair off” mean?

What are the definitions of “pair off”?

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

• 1. Begin a romantic relationship.

  They PAIRED OFF shortly after starting university.

• 2. Introduce people, hoping they will start a relationship.

  I tried to PAIR him OFF with my sister.

• 3. Form pairs.

  The class PAIRED OFF to practise the exam interviews.

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

The most common meaning of the phrasal verb pair off is to form pairs or groups of two. This can be used in various contexts, such as forming teams for a game, partnering up for a project, or starting a romantic relationship.

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

Root Verb	pair off
Third Person Singular Present	pairs off
Present Participle	pairing off
Simple Past	paired off
Past Participle	paired off

Example

The students paired off to work on the group assignment.

Example

She pairs off the students for the group activity.

Example

The teacher is pairing off the students for the project.

Example

They paired off and started working together.

Example

The students had paired off before the teacher arrived.

What kind of phrasal verb is “pair 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

“pair 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 dancers paired off for the final performance.

Example

The students paired off to discuss the topic.

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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

“pair 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 dancers paired off for the final performance.

Example

The students paired off to discuss the topic.

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

Pair off* in a romantic context

Begin a romantic relationship or introduce people, hoping they will start a relationship.

Example

They paired off shortly after starting university.

Pair off* in a teamwork context

Form pairs or groups of two for a specific task or activity.

Example

The teacher asked the students to pair off for the group project.

Pair off* in a social context

Form pairs or groups of two in a social setting, such as a party or gathering.

Example

At the party, people paired off to play the game.

Good things to know

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

Pair 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 used in more formal settings, such as in academic or professional environments.

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

Synonyms

• collaborate
• unite
• couple up
• team up
• join forces
• partner up
• form pairs

Antonyms

• separate
• divide
• disperse
• dissociate
• split up
• break up