What are the definitions of “send off”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Expel a sports player from a match.
The football striker was SENT OFF for arguing with the referee's decision.
- 2Post a letter.
I must SEND this letter OFF today otherwise it won't get there in time.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “send off”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb send off is to mail or post a letter or package. It means to put something in the mail so that it reaches its destination. Another common meaning is to expel a sports player from a match.
What are the different verb forms of “send off”?
| Root Verb | send off |
| Third Person Singular Present | sends off |
| Present Participle | sending off |
| Simple Past | sent off |
| Past Participle | sent off |
Example
I need to send off this package before the post office closes.
Example
She sends off a letter to her family every month.
Example
He is sending off his job application today.
Example
Yesterday, they sent off their wedding invitations.
Example
The package has been sent off and should arrive soon.
What kind of phrasal verb is “send 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
“send 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 sent off a letter to her friend.
Example
The referee sent the player off for a foul.
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
“send 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 sent off a letter to her friend.
Example
The referee sent the player off for a foul.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “send off”?
Good things to know
Does “send off” have an informal or formal tone?
Send 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 correspondence or sports reporting.
