What are the definitions of “sign off on”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 1Give official approval.
The director SIGNED OFF ON the plans to increase sales.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “sign off on”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb sign off on is to give official approval or permission for something. It often involves signing a document or giving verbal consent to show that you agree with a decision or plan.
What are the different verb forms of “sign off on”?
| Root Verb | sign off on |
| Third Person Singular Present | signs off on |
| Present Participle | signing off on |
| Simple Past | signed off on |
| Past Participle | signed off on |
Example
The manager needs to sign off on the new project before we can start.
Example
She signs off on all the contracts before they are sent to the clients.
Example
He is signing off on the budget for the next fiscal year.
Example
Yesterday, the committee signed off on the proposal.
Example
The CEO has signed off on the new marketing strategy.
What kind of phrasal verb is “sign off on”?
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.)
Transitive verb
“sign off on” is a transitive phrasal verb because it requires a direct object to complete its meaning. The direct object specifies what is being removed, obtained, or eliminated.
Example
The supervisor signed off on the employee's vacation request.
Example
The government signed off on the new regulations.
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
“sign off on” 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 supervisor signed off on the employee's vacation request.
Example
The government signed off on the new regulations.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “sign off on”?
Sign off on a project
Give approval for a project to proceed.
Example
The boss signed off on the project, so we can start working on it.
Sign off on a document
Give approval by signing a document.
Example
The lawyer signed off on the legal agreement after reviewing it.
Sign off on a decision
Give approval for a decision to be implemented.
Example
The board signed off on the decision to expand the company.
Good things to know
Does “sign off on” have an informal or formal tone?
Sign off on is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both formal and informal contexts. It is commonly used in professional settings, such as in business, legal, and government contexts. However, it can also be used in casual conversations when discussing personal matters that require approval or consent.
