What does the phrasal verb “sign off” mean?

What are the definitions of “sign off”?

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

• 1. End a message.

  I'll SIGN OFF now, but will write again next week.

• 2. Close a claim for unemployment benefit.

  I SIGNED OFF when I got my new job.

• 3. Stop doing something to leave.

  I'm SIGNING OFF now and going home I'm shattered.

• 4. Give someone a letter to be away from work.

  My doctor SIGNED me OFF for a month with back problems.

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

The most common meaning of the phrasal verb sign off is to end a message, such as a letter, email, or conversation. It is often used when saying goodbye or ending a communication.

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

Root Verb	sign off
Third Person Singular Present	signs off
Present Participle	signing off
Simple Past	signed off
Past Participle	signed off

Example

I always sign off my emails with 'Best regards'.

Example

She signs off her letters with 'Yours sincerely'.

Example

He is signing off the conference call now.

Example

Yesterday, they signed off the meeting with a summary of the discussion.

Example

The email was signed off with a friendly farewell.

What kind of phrasal verb is “sign 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

“sign 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 signed off the email with a polite goodbye.

Example

He signed off the conversation with a friendly wave.

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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

“sign 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 signed off the email with a polite goodbye.

Example

He signed off the conversation with a friendly wave.

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

Sign off on something

To give approval or permission for something, often in a formal or official capacity.

Example

The manager signed off on the new project proposal.

Sign someone off

To give someone permission to be absent from work, usually for medical reasons.

Example

The doctor signed her off work for two weeks due to her illness.

Sign off (a claim)

To close a claim for unemployment benefits or other financial assistance.

Example

He signed off his unemployment claim when he found a new job.

Good things to know

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

Sign off is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is commonly used in everyday conversations, as well as in professional settings, such as in emails, letters, and official documents.

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

Synonyms

• end
• close
• approve
• authorize
• consent
• conclude
• finish
• terminate

Antonyms

• begin
• start
• initiate
• open
• launch
• introduce
• disapprove
• reject