What are the definitions of “square off”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Confront someone or prepare to fight them.
The two drunks SQUARED OFF and the barman had to intervene before a fight broke out.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “square off”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb square off is to confront someone or prepare to fight them. It is often used to describe a situation where two people or groups are getting ready to have a disagreement or physical fight.
What are the different verb forms of “square off”?
| Root Verb | square off |
| Third Person Singular Present | squares off |
| Present Participle | squaring off |
| Simple Past | squared off |
| Past Participle | squared off |
Example
The two boxers squared off in the ring.
Example
He squares off against his opponent in the final round.
Example
The two teams are squaring off in a heated match.
Example
They squared off in a debate about politics.
Example
The rivals had squared off many times before.
What kind of phrasal verb is “square 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
“square 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
The two politicians squared off in a televised debate.
Example
The basketball teams squared off in the championship game.
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
“square 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 two politicians squared off in a televised debate.
Example
The basketball teams squared off in the championship game.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “square off”?
Good things to know
Does “square off” have an informal or formal tone?
Square 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 news reports or written articles.
