What are the definitions of “sound off”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1To express your opinions forcefully.
He SOUNDED OFF about the quality of the food.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “sound off”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb sound off is to express your opinions or feelings forcefully, often in a loud or angry manner. It is used when someone wants to make their thoughts known, especially when they are upset or passionate about a topic.
What are the different verb forms of “sound off”?
| Root Verb | sound off |
| Third Person Singular Present | sounds off |
| Present Participle | sounding off |
| Simple Past | sounded off |
| Past Participle | sounded off |
Example
She always sounds off about politics during family gatherings.
Example
He sounds off whenever he disagrees with the news.
Example
They are sounding off about the unfair treatment they received.
Example
Yesterday, she sounded off about the poor customer service.
Example
He had sounded off about the issue many times before.
What kind of phrasal verb is “sound 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.)
Intransitive verb
“sound 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
She sounded off about the new policy.
Example
He sounded off when he heard the news.
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
“sound 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 sounded off about the new policy.
Example
He sounded off when he heard the news.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “sound off”?
Good things to know
Does “sound off” have an informal or formal tone?
Sound off is generally considered informal and is more commonly used in casual conversations or informal writing. In more formal settings, it is better to use alternative phrases such as 'express one's opinion' or 'voice one's concerns'.
