off
- adverb
- /ɔf/
- I know 2011 sounds like a long way off, but we're nowhere near that advanced yet.
- far off
And I would just slowly look off to the side out the window.
- And I would just slowly look off to the side out the window.
Examples
-
By this time next year, we'll be off working on some other site.
Fiction book (1994) -
A couple questions, then off to the hotel.
-
It's been worked on here and in Russia, on and off, for over eight years.
-
After a few words from Peter, we are off and writing.
Academic text (2006) -
And then tomorrow it's off to the dentist, which I know you love.
-
I'd best be off soon.
-
Off to the movies we shall go
-
Then, from far off in the apartment, comes the sound of the doorbell ringing.
Fiction book (1990) -
My mother is sitting quietly off to one side, smiling almost beatifically.
Fiction book (1991) -
By this time next year, we'll be off working on some other site.
Synonyms
To move or look to a place that is not here
Antonyms
Idioms
- Informal
People keep money or wages off official records to avoid taxes and other rules
- Informal
A person who is very like one of their parents in looks or behaviour
- Informal
A situation where previous plans no longer apply and no one knows what will happen
- Informal
Make a very loud, long cry because you feel afraid, excited, or upset
Compounds
- Specialized
Professional small theaters in New York City with fewer than 500 seats that show new or experimental plays
- Specialized
Removing the value of a debt or asset from accounts when it cannot be paid
A gun with very short barrels that shoots many small metal balls at close range
- Specialized
A play where the pitcher or catcher throws quickly to tag a runner off base
- Specialized
The percentage a compound bow's pull drops at full draw, making it easier to hold
A British TV show where amateur bakers compete in weekly baking challenges
How Far
Surface Forms
Etymology
Off meaning 'at a distance' also comes from the old sense 'away'. So if a date is a month off or an island is miles off, they are 'away' in time or space.