SOMETHING OFF Meaning and
Definition
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The phrase "something off" refers to a feeling or perception that something is not quite right or is out of place. It is often used to describe a situation, object, or person that seems unusual, peculiar, or not in line with the expected or norm. The term can also convey a sense of suspicion or unease about a certain situation or individual.
The expression can be applied in various contexts. For instance, if someone notices a strange odor in a room, they might say, "There's something off about this smell," indicating that it is unpleasant or unusual. Similarly, if a person feels hesitant or skeptical about a proposed plan or arrangement, they might say, "There's something off about this idea," suggesting that it appears questionable or not entirely trustworthy.
Furthermore, "something off" can also describe an intuition or instinctive feeling that arises when a person detects subtle inconsistencies, discrepancies, or irregularities in someone's behavior, statements, or appearance. For example, if someone observes a friend acting differently than usual, they might remark, "There's something off about him today," implying that his behavior does not align with his typical demeanor.
Overall, the phrase "something off" encapsulates the notion of detecting an abnormality or deviation from the expected, leading to a feeling of unease, doubt, or suspicion.
Common Misspellings for SOMETHING OFF
- aomething off
- zomething off
- xomething off
- domething off
- eomething off
- womething off
- simething off
- skmething off
- slmething off
- spmething off
- s0mething off
- s9mething off
- sonething off
- sokething off
- sojething off
- somwthing off
- somsthing off
- somdthing off
- somrthing off
- som4thing off
Etymology of SOMETHING OFF
The term "something off" is a colloquial phrase that generally means that something seems not quite right or not as it should be. It is commonly used to describe a situation or an object that appears to be abnormal, strange, or suspicious.
In terms of etymology, the word "off" originated from Old English "of" and Germanic *ab, meaning "from, away, or out of". The word "off" has been used in English since the 14th century with various meanings related to separation, departure, or deviation. Over time, the phrase "something off" emerged as an idiomatic expression to convey the sense of something being not quite accurate, inauthentic, or incorrect.
The use of "off" in this context can be traced back to the idea of something being off-center, out of alignment, or deviating from the norm.
Idioms with the word SOMETHING OFF
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claw something off someone or something
The idiom "claw something off someone or something" means to forcefully remove or take something from someone or something using one's hands or claws. It implies a sense of desperation or urgency in acquiring what is being taken.
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kiss something off
The idiom "kiss something off" means to dismiss, disregard, or give up on something or someone, typically due to frustration, disappointment, or lack of interest. It suggests the abandonment or dismissal of a task, responsibility, or relationship without further consideration or effort.
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clear something off something
The idiom "clear something off something" means to remove or clean something so as to make a surface or an object free from dirt, clutter, or any other unwanted substances.
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foist someone or something off (on someone or something)
The idiom "foist someone or something off (on someone or something)" means to deceive or impose someone or something onto another person or entity without their consent or desire. It often involves tricking or pressuring someone into accepting or dealing with something they do not want or find burdensome.
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buy, get, etc. something off the shelf
The idiom "buy, get, etc. something off the shelf" means to purchase or obtain something that is readily available and doesn't require any special ordering or customization. It refers to purchasing a product from a store or supplier without the need for any additional waiting, manufacturing, or specific alterations. The item is readily accessible and can be obtained immediately.
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bounce something off someone
To "bounce something off someone" means to discuss or present an idea, plan, or question to someone in order to seek their opinion, input, or feedback. It implies using someone as a sounding board or source of consultation, usually to gauge their reaction or gather additional insights before making a decision or taking action.
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knock something off (of) someone or something
The idiom "knock something off (of) someone or something" means to remove or dislodge an object from someone or something by striking it forcefully. It implies forcefully knocking an object off a person or an object to make it fall or become detached.
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wipe something off the face of the earth
The idiom "wipe something off the face of the earth" refers to completely eradicating or eliminating something or someone, often with great force or determination. It implies the complete destruction or removal of something so that there is no trace or remnant left.
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chop something off (of) something
The definition for the idiom "chop something off (of) something" is:
To cut or remove a part of something, typically with a sharp tool or object. It implies a quick and decisive action resulting in a separation or detachment of a specific portion from the whole.
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burn something off something
The idiom "burn something off something" typically refers to the act of removing or eliminating an unwanted substance or material through the process of burning or heat application.
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barter something off
The idiom "barter something off" refers to the act of exchanging or trading something, typically with another person, in return for something else. It implies negotiation and haggling to reach a mutually beneficial agreement in the exchange.
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lead someone or something off
The idiom "lead someone or something off" generally means to guide or direct someone or something away from a particular place or situation, often in a deliberate or purposeful manner. It can also signify taking the initial step or being the first one to embark on a journey or a task.
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finish someone or something off
The idiom "finish someone or something off" means to complete the destruction, defeat, or elimination of someone or something, often after a previous effort or event has weakened or harmed them.
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drive someone or something off
The idiom "drive someone or something off" means to force someone or something to leave or go away, usually by using physical or verbal actions. It implies making a person or thing move away forcefully or removing them from a particular place or situation.
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fence someone or something off (from something)
To "fence someone or something off (from something)" means to physically or metaphorically separate or isolate someone or something from a particular area, group, or activity. It implies creating a barrier or boundary to keep them apart or out.
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harden something off
The idiom "harden something off" means to gradually acclimate or strengthen something, typically plants or seedlings, to different environmental conditions. It involves gradually exposing them to outdoor elements such as sunlight, wind, and temperature variations, allowing them to develop resistance and adaptability. This process helps the plants transition from the controlled environment of a greenhouse or indoors to the harsher conditions of the outside world.
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fire something off (to someone)
The idiom "fire something off (to someone)" means to quickly send or transmit a message, email, or communication to someone. It implies a sense of urgency or speed in delivering the information without much delay or thought.
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have/know/get something off pat
The idiom "have/know/get something off pat" means to have something thoroughly memorized or learned to the point of automatic recollection or mastery.
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carry someone or something off
The idiom "carry someone or something off" means to take someone or something away, often by force or against their will. It can imply abduction, kidnapping, or forcefully removing someone or something from a particular place or situation.
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lift something off (of) someone or something
The idiom "lift something off (of) someone or something" means to physically or figuratively remove, take away, or relieve someone or something from a burden or responsibility. It often implies making things easier or providing assistance to someone.
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get something off one's chest
The idiom "get something off one's chest" means to confess or reveal something that has been weighing heavily on one's mind for a long time. It refers to the act of expressing or discussing a problem, concern, or secret in order to experience a sense of relief or release from the burden of keeping it concealed.
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knock something off
The idiom "knock something off" typically means to complete or finish a task or activity quickly or efficiently. It can also refer to producing a replica or imitation of something.
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cut someone or something off (from something)
The idiom "cut someone or something off (from something)" means to disconnect, interrupt, or separate someone or something from a particular place, resource, or opportunity, often suddenly or unexpectedly. It can also refer to preventing someone from continuing to speak or interrupting someone mid-conversation.
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get off the ground (or get something off the ground)
The idiom "get off the ground" or "get something off the ground" means to initiate or start something successfully. It refers to the early stages of a project, plan, or initiative when it is set into motion and begins to progress or develop. This can apply to starting a business, launching a product, or kickstarting any endeavor.
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push someone or something off (of) someone or something
The idiom "push someone or something off (of) someone or something" means physically or metaphorically removing or displacing someone or something from a particular person or object.
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flick something off someone or something
The idiom "flick something off someone or something" means to remove or brush away something quickly and casually, typically with a quick, light movement of the fingers or hand. It is often used when describing the act of removing a small object, like a speck of dirt, lint, or debris, from a person or an object by flicking it away.
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dash something off
The idiom "dash something off" means to quickly write or create something, typically without much thought or effort put into it.
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get someone or something off someone or something
The idiom "get someone or something off someone or something" generally refers to the act of physically removing or taking away a person or object from someone or something else. It can also be used metaphorically to describe the act of alleviating or resolving a situation, issue, or burden that is impacting someone or something.
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beat someone or something off
The idiom "beat someone or something off" means to successfully repel or ward off an attacker, opponent, or unwanted person or thing. It often implies the use of force, strength, or determination to resist and fend off an approaching danger or threat.
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bundle something off (to someone or some place)
The idiom "bundle something off (to someone or some place)" means to quickly send, deliver, or dispatch something or someone to a specific person or location, typically in a hasty or eager manner.
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keep someone or something off (of someone or something)
The idiom "keep someone or something off (of someone or something)" means to prevent someone or something from getting onto or touching a particular person or thing. It implies creating a barrier or distance to maintain separation or protection.
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break something off
The idiom "break something off" means to end or terminate something, typically a relationship, a conversation, or an activity, abruptly or prematurely.
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dry someone or something off
The idiom "dry someone or something off" means to remove moisture or water from someone or something, typically by using a towel, cloth, or heat source, in order to make them or it dry.
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lick something off (of) something
The idiom "lick something off (of) something" means to use one's tongue or saliva to remove a substance from a surface, typically in a quick or thorough manner. It often conveys the idea of consuming or enjoying something with great enthusiasm or delight. This expression can be used both literally, referring to licking off an actual substance, or figuratively, indicating the act of acquiring or obtaining something in an efficient or skillful way.
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hold someone or something off
To "hold someone or something off" means to keep someone or something at a distance or prevent them from advancing or getting closer. It often implies resisting or withstanding pressure or attacks from an opponent or unwanted situation.
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bounce something off (of) someone or something
To "bounce something off (of) someone or something" means to share an idea, suggestion, or proposal with someone or to seek their opinion or feedback on it. It implies that you want to get their thoughts on the matter or hear their perspective before making a decision or taking further action.
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bite something off
To "bite something off" means to take on or accept a task, responsibility, or commitment, often excessively or more than one can handle. It implies that one is being ambitious or overzealous in their attempts to accomplish something or to fulfill a given obligation.
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choke something off
The idiom "choke something off" means to prevent the natural progress, growth, or continuation of something. It involves hindering or stopping a process, usually unintentionally or inadvertently.
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close something off
The idiom "close something off" generally means to block or obstruct access or passage to a particular area or object. It can refer to physically barricading or sealing off a space or ending availability or use of something.
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file something off
The idiom "file something off" means to remove or alter a small part of something using a file. It can also be used metaphorically to indicate making slight modifications or adjustments to something, typically to make it more suitable or conforming to a particular purpose or situation.
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fight someone or something off
To "fight someone or something off" means to defend oneself or resist an attacker or a challenging situation. It commonly refers to exerting effort or taking action to repel or repulse an aggressive or unwelcome force.
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kick something off
The idiom "kick something off" refers to initiating or starting something. It often pertains to commencing a project, event, or activity.
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bounce something off of someone
The idiom "bounce something off of someone" means to share or discuss an idea, plan, or opinion with someone in order to get their input, feedback, or opinion. It refers to seeking another person's perspective or advice before making a decision or taking any action.
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auction something off
The idiom "auction something off" means to sell something, usually to the highest bidder, by conducting an auction.
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brush something off someone or something
To "brush something off someone or something" means to dismiss, ignore, or reject something, typically in a casual or nonchalant manner. It implies not taking something seriously or not allowing it to have an impact or influence on oneself or a situation.
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dab something off (of) something
The idiom "dab something off (of) something" refers to the act of lightly touching or patting an object or surface in order to remove or wipe away a substance or stain. It implies a quick and gentle action to eliminate something like dirt, liquid, or a mark from a surface using a dabbing motion. This expression is often used when talking about cleaning or tidying up.
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beg something off
The idiom "beg something off" means to decline or politely refuse an invitation, request, or task. It involves asking to be excused or to be released from an obligation.
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wipe something off the map
The idiom "wipe something off the map" means to completely destroy or eliminate something or someone, typically referring to a place or an object. It suggests complete annihilation or eradication without leaving a trace behind.
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hack something off
The idiom "hack something off" typically means to forcefully or crudely remove something, often by cutting or chopping it off. It can be used both literally and figuratively.
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carry something off
The idiom "carry something off" means to successfully complete or accomplish something difficult, often with skill or style, despite challenges or obstacles. It implies effectively managing a task or situation in a way that is impressive or effective.
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block something off
The idiom "block something off" means to restrict access or prevent entry by creating a physical barrier or boundary. It involves the act of closing or sealing off an area or pathway to prevent passage.
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finish something off
The idiom "finish something off" means to complete or conclude something, often in a final or decisive manner. It implies doing the last part or remaining tasks necessary to bring an activity or task to its conclusion.
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laugh something off
To "laugh something off" means to respond to a situation by making a joke, finding humor in it, or not taking it seriously. It involves treating a difficult, embarrassing, or serious situation lightly and with humor in order to minimize its impact or severity.
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get something off your chest
The idiom "get something off your chest" means to express or confess something that has been bothering you or causing you to feel anxious or burdened. It is an expression used to describe the act of unburdening oneself by sharing one's thoughts, emotions, or secrets with someone else.
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cordon something off
The idiom "cordon something off" refers to the act of placing a barrier or cord around an area to prevent people from entering or accessing it. It is often used in situations where the designated area needs to be restricted due to safety, security, or privacy concerns. The term "cordon" typically implies the use of a physical barrier, such as a fence, tape, or a line of people, to demarcate the restricted space.
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clean something off
The idiom "clean something off" means to remove dirt, debris, or unwanted substances from a surface, object, or person. It implies making something free from dirt, stains, or other undesirable elements.
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call something off
The idiom "call something off" means to cancel or decide not to proceed with a planned event, activity, or arrangement.
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drain something off something
The idiom "drain something off something" typically means to remove or reduce a liquid or substance from a particular source or container, often by allowing it to flow out or escape gradually.
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flake something off of something
The idiom "flake something off of something" means to remove or detach something from a surface by breaking it into small, thin pieces. It implies the action of scraping or chipping away a material, typically in a gradual or delicate manner.
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hit something off
The idiom "hit it off" or "hit something off" is used to describe a situation in which two or more people immediately establish a friendly and enjoyable connection or rapport with one another. It implies that the individuals involved have similar interests, personalities, or simply have a natural affinity that allows them to bond effortlessly.
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cut someone or something off (short)
The idiom "cut someone or something off (short)" means to abruptly interrupt or stop someone or something in the middle of their action or conversation, often without allowing them to finish what they were saying or doing.
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bring something off
The idiom "bring something off" means to successfully accomplish or achieve something, typically despite challenges, difficulties, or obstacles. It implies effectively completing a task or achieving a desired outcome.
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back someone or something off (from something)
The definition of the idiom "back someone or something off (from something)" is to cause someone or something to retreat, move away, or create distance from a particular location, situation, or object.
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fob someone or something off (on or onto someone)
The idiom "fob someone or something off (on or onto someone)" means to deceive or trick someone by giving them a false or less desirable option or responsibility. It can also refer to getting rid of an unwanted task, responsibility, or person by passing it on to someone else.
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kiss someone or something off
The idiom "kiss someone or something off" means to dismiss or disregard someone or something in a rude or disrespectful manner. It implies a lack of concern or consideration towards the person or thing in question.
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check someone or something off
The idiom "check someone or something off" typically means to mark someone or something as completed, finished, or accounted for on a list or schedule. It refers to the action of checking an item off a list as a way to indicate that it has been completed or dealt with.
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cadge something off someone
The idiom "cadge something off someone" means to obtain or acquire something, usually through begging or obtaining a favor from someone else, especially when one has no intention of returning the favor or repaying the person. It implies seeking assistance or obtaining something for free without providing anything in return.
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cut something off
The idiom "cut something off" means to remove or separate something, typically by using a sharp object or by blocking it from reaching a particular destination. It can also refer to stopping communication or contact abruptly, or interrupting someone while speaking.
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let something off
The idiom "let something off" means to allow or permit something to happen or to be released, often referring to relieving pressure, discharging a substance, or forgiving someone of a wrongdoing.
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drop someone or something off
The idiom "drop someone or something off" means to transport or deliver someone or something to a specific location and leave them/it there, usually by car or other means of transportation.
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curtain something off
The idiom "curtain something off" refers to the process of separating or isolating a particular area or object by using or putting up a curtain. It implies creating a physical or metaphorical barrier to keep something separate or hidden from view. The purpose is to enclose or restrict access to a specific space or subject.
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head someone or something off
The idiom "head someone or something off" means to intercept or prevent someone or something from reaching a certain destination or achieving a certain goal. It implies taking action to block or divert someone's or something's progress in order to control or manage a situation.
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count someone or something off
The idiom "count someone or something off" refers to the act of systematically enumerating or organizing a group of people or items by calling out their names or numbers one by one. It is often used to ensure accuracy or to create order during a task or activity.
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tick something off on your fingers
The idiom "tick something off on your fingers" refers to counting or tallying something using your fingers. It means to use your fingers as a method of keeping track or remembering items or numbers by mentally assigning each one to a different finger.
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drop someone or something off something
The idiom "drop someone or something off" means to transport or deliver someone or something to a specific location and then leave them there temporarily. It can refer to physically leaving someone or something at a particular place before continuing on with one's own journey.
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break something off (of) something
The idiom "break something off (of) something" means to snap or detach a part from a larger whole. It implies separating or removing something from its original position or structure, typically by force or accident.
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level something off
The idiom "level something off" means to stabilize or make something flat or even. It is often used in reference to adjusting or equalizing a situation, process, or behavior so that it becomes more consistent or balanced.
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fling something off (of) something
The idiom "fling something off (of) something" typically means to forcefully or swiftly remove or throw something off from a particular surface or location. It implies the action of discarding, getting rid of, or forcefully disposing of something.
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cart someone or something off
The idiom "cart someone or something off" means to forcibly remove or take away a person or thing, often in a hurried or clumsy manner. This phrase is often used when someone or something is being moved or transported unceremoniously, without concern for their comfort or well-being. It implies a lack of consideration or care in the process of removal.
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force someone or something off (of) something
The idiom "force someone or something off (of) something" means to physically or forcefully remove or dislodge someone or something from a particular surface, area, or position. It implies exerting power or pressure to make someone or something leave a place where they are or forcing them to abandon a certain position.
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give something off
The idiom "give something off" refers to the emission or release of a particular substance, odor, energy, or signal. It implies the act of producing and dispersing something into the surrounding environment.
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cross someone or something off (of) something
The definition of the idiom "cross someone or something off (of) something" is to remove or eliminate someone or something from a list, schedule, or plan. It is commonly used to indicate that someone or something is no longer considered or included in a particular context.
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fend someone or something off
The idiom "fend someone or something off" means to protect oneself or ward off an attacker or unwanted person or thing. It implies using physical or metaphorical means to defend oneself and prevent harm or intrusion.
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get something off (to someone or something)
The idiom "get something off (to someone or something)" typically means to send or deliver something, such as a letter, package, or message, to a specific person or place. It implies the action of transferring or dispatching something to its intended recipient or destination.
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kick something off (of) someone or something
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blow someone/something off
The idiom "blow someone/something off" means to ignore or disregard someone or something, often without giving them the attention or consideration they deserve. It can also refer to canceling or not showing up for a planned meeting or event.
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kiss someone/something off
To dismiss, reject, or forget about someone or something with little concern or consideration.
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draw something off (from something)
To extract or take something from a larger source or supply.
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jerk something off (of) someone or something
To forcibly remove or take something from someone or something, usually in a rough or uncaring manner.
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wipe somebody/something off the face of the earth
To completely destroy or eliminate somebody or something.