What are the definitions of “come off”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1When something breaks off.
I picked it up and the handle CAME OFF in my hand.
- 2Be successful.
I was surprised when the plan CAME OFF so easily.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “come off”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb come off is when something breaks off or detaches from its original position. For example, it can mean a handle breaking off from a door or a button coming off a shirt.
What are the different verb forms of “come off”?
| Root Verb | come off |
| Third Person Singular Present | comes off |
| Present Participle | coming off |
| Simple Past | came off |
| Past Participle | come off |
Example
The button came off my shirt.
Example
The paint comes off the wall easily.
Example
The sticker is coming off the surface.
Example
The handle came off the door when I tried to open it.
Example
The label had come off the package during shipping.
What kind of phrasal verb is “come off”?
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a transitive and intransitive verb? - A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.) - An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)
Intransitive verb
“come off” is an intransitive phrasal verb because it doesn't require an object to complete its meaning. It forms a complete sentence without an object.
Example
The paint came off easily.
Example
The plan came off without any problems.
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb? - A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle. - An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.
Inseparable
“come off” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.
Example
The paint came off easily.
Example
The plan came off without any problems.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “come off”?
Come off as
To appear or seem in a particular way to others
Example
He didn't want to come off as rude during the meeting.
Come off it
An informal expression used to tell someone that you don't believe what they are saying or to stop exaggerating
Example
Come off it, there's no way you finished the entire project in one day.
Good things to know
Does “come off” have an informal or formal tone?
Come off is generally considered neutral in terms of formality. It can be used in both informal and formal contexts, depending on the situation. For example, when discussing a broken object, it can be used in casual conversations. However, when talking about the success of a plan or project, it can be used in more formal settings.
