Differences between buy off and run off
Buy off means to pay someone to stop them from doing something or to bribe someone, while run off means to leave a place quickly and suddenly.
Meanings and Definitions: buy off vs run off
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Buy off
- 1Pay someone to stop them causing trouble.
He BOUGHT the newspaper OFF by placing a lot of adverts.
Run off
- 1Make photocopies.
RUN OFF two hundred copies Could you of this report, please.
Usage Examples: buy off, run off in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
buy off
Example
The politician tried to buy off the journalist to prevent the scandal from being exposed.
Example
He buys off the security guard to gain access to the restricted area.
run off
Example
Please run off fifty copies of the flyer for the event.
Example
She runs off the meeting agenda every week.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Buy off
To offer money or other incentives to someone in exchange for their cooperation or silence.
Example
The politician was accused of trying to bribe the journalist to keep quiet about the scandal.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Run off
To escape from a dangerous or threatening situation by running away.
Example
The villagers had to flee their homes due to the approaching wildfire.
To run away suddenly and quickly, often to avoid something unpleasant or uncomfortable.
Example
The cat bolted out of the room as soon as it heard the vacuum cleaner.
Differences in buy off vs run off: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: buy off or run off?
In daily conversation, people use run off more often than buy off. This is because run off is used for more common situations like leaving a place in a hurry or running away from danger. Buy off is not used as much in everyday conversation. It's mainly used when we're talking about bribing someone. So, while both phrases are used, run off is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of buy off and run off
Buy off and run off are informal phrases often used in casual conversations. They are suitable for everyday interactions with friends and family. In more formal settings like business or academic contexts, using alternative expressions can convey a more polished tone.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of buy off and run off
The tone of buy off and run off can differ based on context. Buy off often carries a negative connotation when related to bribery or corruption, while run off typically has a neutral or urgent tone, especially when referring to leaving a place quickly.