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off

/ɔːf/

The primary image is one of separation, disconnection, or departure from a point of contact. It describes the movement from 'on' to 'away'. When applied to technology or power, it signifies a state of inactivity or a broken circuit. Unlike 'stopped', which implies a pause in motion, 'off' suggests a complete termination of flow or connection. In the context of food, it carries a subtle, negative connotation of decay. It is often used as an understatement ('a bit off') to describe something that has begun to spoil without being completely rotten.

💬Trò chuyện

🎬Tuesday afternoon, Jessica is frantically preparing for a client presentation while Mark is hiding in the breakroom.
Jessica

The projector is still off. Please tell me you didn't blow a fuse.

Jessica
Mark
Mark

Chill, Jess. I'm just zoning out for a sec.

💡
Jessica uses 'off' to describe the non-functioning state of the electronics (adjective), reflecting her anxiety over the presentation. Mark responds with the phrasal verb 'zoning out', meaning he is daydreaming or ignoring his surroundings, highlighting his slacker persona.

Ý nghĩa

adverb

Away from a particular place

"She stepped off the curb."

adjective

Not functioning or not operating; disconnected from a power source

"Please make sure the lights are off before you leave."

preposition

Away from or descending from something

"The cat jumped off the table."

adjective

Spoiled or no longer fresh (typically referring to food)

"This milk smells a bit off."

Last Updated: May 23, 2026Report an Error