What are the definitions of “wean off”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Slowly stop a dependency on something.
We will have to WEAN him OFF his obsession.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “wean off”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb wean off is to gradually stop a dependency on something, such as a habit, substance, or activity. It is often used when talking about helping someone to stop relying on something they have become dependent on.
What are the different verb forms of “wean off”?
| Root Verb | wean off |
| Third Person Singular Present | weans off |
| Present Participle | weaning off |
| Simple Past | weaned off |
| Past Participle | weaned off |
Example
The doctor suggested we wean off the medication slowly.
Example
She weans off her coffee addiction by drinking less each day.
Example
He is weaning off his reliance on sleeping pills.
Example
They weaned off their sugar cravings by eating healthier snacks.
Example
She has weaned off her dependence on social media.
What kind of phrasal verb is “wean 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
“wean 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
The doctor helped her wean off the painkillers.
Example
He weaned himself off the habit of smoking.
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
“wean 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
The doctor helped her wean off the painkillers.
Example
He weaned himself off the habit of smoking.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “wean off”?
Gradually stop breastfeeding a baby and introduce other foods.
Example
The pediatrician recommended weaning off breastfeeding when the baby is around six months old.
Slowly reduce the dosage of a medication until it is no longer needed.
Example
The doctor advised her to wean off the antidepressants over a few weeks.
Good things to know
Does “wean off” have an informal or formal tone?
Wean off is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is appropriate for everyday conversations, as well as more formal settings, such as medical discussions or professional advice.
