Phrasal verb
call off
Meanings
To cancel a planned event or arrangement.
To stop an action that has already started or is about to start (such as a search or attack).
Definition
To call off something is to cancel it so it will not happen.
To call off means to cancel a planned event, activity, or arrangement. People often call off meetings, trips, or games because of bad weather, illness, or other problems. It can also mean to stop an action already in progress, such as an attack or a search.
Examples
- I had to call off my dentist appointment because I got stuck at work.
- They decided to call off the picnic when the storm clouds rolled in.
- She called off the meeting after the presenter lost power at home.
- The coach called off practice to give the team a rest day.
Common mistake
Learners often confuse call off (cancel/stop) with call out (shout or request someone to come).
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.