Differences between start off and tick off
Start off means to begin or start something, while tick off means to mark something as completed or to make someone angry or annoyed.
Meanings and Definitions: start off vs tick off
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Start off
- 1Make something start.
They STARTED OFF the meeting with an attack on our performance.
- 2Begin life, a career or existence.
She STARTED OFF as a receptionist and ended up as the CEO.
- 3Begin a journey.
We STARTED OFF early because we knew the journey would take all day.
- 4Make someone laugh.
I was trying to be serious, but their comment STARTED me OFF.
Tick off
- 1Annoy.
She really TICKS me OFF when she doesn't reply to my emails.
- 2Scold.
He TICKED me OFF for arriving late.
- 3Put a mark on an item in a list when it has been dealt with.
She TICKED OFF our names when we arrived.
Usage Examples: start off, tick off in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
start off
Example
Let's start off the meeting with a quick introduction.
Example
He starts off his day with a cup of coffee.
tick off
Example
I always tick off the tasks on my to-do list after completing them.
Example
She ticks off the items on her shopping list as she buys them.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Start off
To start or initiate something formally or ceremoniously.
Example
The ceremony will commence with the national anthem and a speech by the president.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Tick off
To annoy or bother someone with words or actions.
Example
His constant complaining really irritates me.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “start”
Phrasal Verbs with “tick”
- tick away
- tick by
- tick along
- tick over
Phrasal Verbs with “off”
Differences in start off vs tick off: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: start off or tick off?
In daily conversation, people use start off more often than tick off. This is because start off is used for more common activities such as starting a conversation, a project, or a journey. Tick off is not used as much. It's mainly used when we're talking about completing tasks or making someone angry. So, while both phrases are used, start off is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of start off and tick off
Start off and tick 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 start off and tick off
The tone of start off and tick off can differ based on context. Start off often carries a positive or neutral tone when related to beginning something, while tick off typically has a negative or frustrated tone, especially when referring to making someone angry or annoyed.
