What are the definitions of “trade off”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Bargain, make a deal or compromise.
A longer working week was TRADED OFF for a pay rise.
- 2Accept something you don't really want to get something you do want.
We had to TRADE OFF space for the location when buying the apartment.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “trade off”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb trade off is to make a compromise or accept something less desirable in order to gain something more desirable. It often involves finding a balance between two things that cannot both be achieved at the same time.
What are the different verb forms of “trade off”?
| Root Verb | trade off |
| Third Person Singular Present | trades off |
| Present Participle | trading off |
| Simple Past | traded off |
| Past Participle | traded off |
Example
They had to trade off some features to make the product more affordable.
Example
She trades off her free time to work extra hours and earn more money.
Example
He is trading off his privacy for the convenience of living in the city center.
Example
They traded off their vacation time to complete the project on time.
Example
The company has traded off some of its profits to invest in new technology.
What kind of phrasal verb is “trade 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
“trade 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
They traded off higher salary for more vacation days.
Example
She traded off her privacy for a better location.
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
“trade 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
They traded off higher salary for more vacation days.
Example
She traded off her privacy for a better location.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “trade off”?
Trade-off
A situation where you must choose between two things that cannot both be achieved at the same time.
Example
There is often a trade-off between quality and price when shopping for products.
Good things to know
Does “trade off” have an informal or formal tone?
Trade 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 more formal settings, such as business negotiations or discussions about decision-making.
