What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
put off
Example
I'll have to put off my vacation until next month. [put off: verb]
Example
The meeting was put off until next week due to scheduling conflicts. [put off: phrasal verb]
Example
I always put off doing my taxes until the last minute. [put off: phrasal verb]
procrastinate
Example
I tend to procrastinate when it comes to studying for exams. [procrastinate: verb]
Example
She always procrastinates until the deadline is looming. [procrastinates: present tense]
Example
Procrastination can lead to unnecessary stress and anxiety. [procrastination: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Put off is more commonly used in everyday language than procrastinate. Put off is a versatile phrasal verb that can be used in various contexts, while procrastinate is more formal and less commonly used.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between put off and procrastinate?
Procrastinate is more formal than put off. It is often used in academic or professional settings to describe a chronic pattern of delaying tasks. Put off, on the other hand, is more versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
