What does the phrasal verb “shoot off” mean?

What are the definitions of “shoot off”?

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

• 1. Leave promptly and quickly.

  I'll have to SHOOT OFF as soon as the lesson finishes, otherwise I'll miss my train.

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

The most common meaning of the phrasal verb shoot off is to leave a place quickly and promptly. It is often used when someone needs to go somewhere in a hurry or has a tight schedule.

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

Root Verb	shoot off
Third Person Singular Present	shoots off
Present Participle	shooting off
Simple Past	shot off
Past Participle	shot off

Example

I need to shoot off after the meeting to catch my flight.

Example

She always shoots off right after class to get to her next appointment.

Example

He is shooting off to the store before it closes.

Example

Yesterday, they shot off as soon as the concert ended.

Example

He had shot off to the airport to pick up his friend.

What kind of phrasal verb is “shoot 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

“shoot 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

I need to shoot off now, or I'll be late.

Example

She shot off as soon as the meeting ended.

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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

“shoot 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

I need to shoot off now, or I'll be late.

Example

She shot off as soon as the meeting ended.

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

Shoot off one's mouth

To speak without thinking or without considering the consequences of one's words.

Example

He tends to shoot off his mouth, which often gets him into trouble.

Shoot off an email

To quickly write and send an email.

Example

I'll shoot off an email to the team to update them on the project.

Shoot off fireworks

To set off fireworks, usually during a celebration.

Example

They shot off fireworks to celebrate the New Year.

Good things to know

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

Shoot off is generally considered informal and is more commonly used in casual conversations. In more formal settings, it is better to use alternative phrases such as 'leave quickly' or 'depart promptly'.

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

Synonyms

• bolt
• leave quickly
• depart promptly
• rush off
• hurry off
• dash off
• take off

Antonyms

• arrive
• stay
• linger
• remain
• wait
• tarry