Phrasal verb
bring off
Meanings
To succeed in doing or achieving something difficult or risky.
To make an event or plan happen successfully.
Definition
To bring off something is to succeed in doing it, especially when it is difficult.
To bring off means to achieve or complete something successfully, often despite problems or doubt. It is commonly used for plans, performances, tricks, or difficult tasks. It suggests that success was not guaranteed, but you managed it.
Examples
- I can’t believe I brought off that presentation without any notes.
- You really brought off a surprise party on such short notice.
- He brought off the difficult move on his skateboard after weeks of practice.
- She brought off a calm apology even though she was nervous.
- They brought off the festival despite the heavy rain.
Common mistake
Learners often say "bring out" instead of "bring off" when they mean to succeed at something difficult.
More phrasal verbs
- go on To go on means to continue or keep happening.
- carry out To carry out something means to do it or complete it, especially a plan, task, or instruction.
- set up To set up means to arrange or prepare something so it is ready to use or happen.
- pick up “Pick up” most commonly means to collect someone or something from a place, usually by going there.
- go back To go back means to return to a place, time, or earlier situation.