What are the definitions of “tee off on”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Criticise.
She TEED OFF ON me about the work I gave her.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “tee off on”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb tee off on is to criticize someone or something, usually in a harsh or angry manner. It often implies that the person doing the criticizing is expressing their frustration or dissatisfaction.
What are the different verb forms of “tee off on”?
| Root Verb | tee off on |
| Third Person Singular Present | tees off on |
| Present Participle | teeing off on |
| Simple Past | teed off on |
| Past Participle | teed off on |
Example
She teed off on him for not doing his share of the housework.
Example
He tees off on his employees when they make mistakes.
Example
She is teeing off on her friend for being late to the party.
Example
Yesterday, the coach teed off on the team for their poor performance.
Example
He had teed off on her so many times that she finally decided to quit.
What kind of phrasal verb is “tee off on”?
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
“tee off on” 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 teed off on him for his constant tardiness.
Example
The boss teed off on the employees for their lack of productivity.
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
“tee off on” 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 teed off on him for his constant tardiness.
Example
The boss teed off on the employees for their lack of productivity.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “tee off on”?
Good things to know
Does “tee off on” have an informal or formal tone?
Tee off on is an informal phrasal verb, typically used in casual conversations. It is not recommended for use in formal writing or professional settings. Instead, consider using synonyms such as 'criticize,' 'reprimand,' or 'rebuke' in more formal contexts.
