counteract (something) by having an opposing force or effect, cause (printed matter) to transfer or smear onto another surface

throw someone off balance/offset, on/off the offset, offset one's losses

offset printing, offset account, offset smoker

Formal and Informal Expressions of offset

In different contexts, you can replace 'offset' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'counteract, compensate' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'balance out, even out' is a commonplace synonym.

offset: Explore its Definition & Usage

offset Definition

1counteract (something) by having an opposing force or effect
2cause (printed matter) to transfer or smear onto another surface

Using offset: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "offset" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

Example
The cost of the repairs was offset by the increase in property value.
Example
The company hopes to offset its carbon emissions by planting trees.
Example
The ink on the page offset onto the opposite page.
Example
The colors are slightly offset from each other.

offset Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for offset

Antonyms for offset

Idioms Using offset

throw someone off balance/offset
cause someone to lose their stability or composure
Example
The sudden change in plans threw her off balance and she became flustered.
on/off the offset
alternating between being ahead and behind in a competition or race
Example
The two runners were neck and neck, constantly on and off the offset.
offset one's losses
minimize the negative impact of a loss by making up for it in some way
Example
He offset his losses in the stock market by investing in real estate.

Phrases with offset

offset printing
a printing technique in which ink is transferred from a plate to a rubber blanket, then to paper
Example
Offset printing is commonly used for books and magazines.
offset account
a bank account linked to a mortgage account, reducing the interest payable on the mortgage
Example
By using an offset account, you can save money on your mortgage repayments.
offset smoker
a type of barbecue smoker that has two compartments, one for charcoal and wood, and one for meat
Example
Using an offset smoker requires patience and skill, but the results are worth it.

Origins of offset

from off- + set, meaning 'to set off'

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Summary: offset in Brief

To 'offset' [ˈɒfset] is to counteract something with an opposing force or effect. It can also refer to causing printed matter to transfer or smear onto another surface. Examples include 'The cost of the repairs was offset by the increase in property value.' and 'The ink on the page offset onto the opposite page.' Phrases like 'offset printing' and 'offset smoker' denote specific techniques or objects, while idioms like 'throw someone off balance/offset' and 'offset one's losses' convey figurative meanings.