Pronunciation: [kˈɪlɪŋ ˈɒf] (IPA) 
The phrase "killing off" is spelled exactly as it is pronounced. The first word is "killing," with the stress on the first syllable (/'kɪlɪŋ/). The second word, "off," is pronounced with the vowel sound /ɒ/ as in "hot" and the voiceless consonant sound /f/, resulting in the transcription /'kɪlɪŋ ɒf/. This phrase is commonly used in storytelling to describe the act of eliminating a character or element of the plot.
Killing off, in its literal sense, refers to the deliberate act of causing death or the extinction of a person, animal, or organism. However, the term is often used in a figurative manner, especially in storytelling, literature, or other forms of media. In this context, killing off refers to the intentional removal or elimination of a character or group of characters from a narrative or series.
When a character is killed off, it means the author, writer, or creator has decided to end their storyline or role within the plot. This is often done to evoke emotional reactions, create tension, or advance the overall story arc. Killing off characters can add suspense, surprise, or drama to a narrative, impacting readers or viewers' engagement with the material.
In some cases, killing off characters may bring closure to their story or create opportunities for new storylines to develop. However, it can also be seen as a controversial narrative choice, especially when beloved or significant characters are unexpectedly removed. Killing off characters may generate discussions among fans and critics, as they may question the motivations or consequences of these creative choices.
Overall, killing off characters is a strategic narrative device used by storytellers to create impact, evoke emotions, and drive the plot forward by eliminating certain characters from a story.
The phrase "killing off" is a combination of the word "killing" and the particle "off".
The word "killing" originated from the Old English word "cyllan", which meant "to kill". Over time, it developed into the Middle English word "killen", which carried the same meaning. The term "kill" itself has Germanic roots and is related to the Old Norse word "skíða", meaning "to cut".
The particle "off" comes from the Old English "of". It is a preposition used to indicate separation or removal. It can also be used as an adverb in the sense of "away". This usage can be seen in various phrasal verbs such as "take off", "drop off", or "show off".
