What are the definitions of “ease off”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Reduce pressure.
She EASED OFF the accelerator to let the car slow down.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “ease off”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb ease off is to reduce pressure, force, or intensity. It is often used when talking about slowing down a vehicle, decreasing the intensity of an activity, or lessening the force applied to something.
What are the different verb forms of “ease off”?
Root Verb | ease off |
Third Person Singular Present | eases off |
Present Participle | easing off |
Simple Past | eased off |
Past Participle | eased off |
Example
When the rain started, he eased off the gas pedal.
Example
She eases off the accelerator when approaching a sharp turn.
Example
He is easing off the pressure on the brakes.
Example
Yesterday, they eased off their workout routine.
Example
The pain in my leg has eased off since I started taking the medication.
What kind of phrasal verb is “ease 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
“ease 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 rain eased off after an hour.
Example
The pain in my leg eased off gradually.
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
“ease 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 rain eased off after an hour.
Example
The pain in my leg eased off gradually.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “ease off”?
Good things to know
Does “ease off” have an informal or formal tone?
Ease 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, depending on the specific context.