Phrasal verb
take off
Meanings
To remove clothing or something you are wearing.
To leave the ground and begin to fly (used for planes, birds, or rockets).
To suddenly become successful or popular very quickly.
Definition
To take off means to remove something or to leave the ground and begin flying.
“Take off” is a common phrasal verb with a few everyday meanings. It often means to remove clothing or something that is attached. It can also mean an airplane leaving the ground, or a plan or product becoming successful very quickly.
Examples
- I took off my jacket because the room was warm.
- The plane took off on time despite the clouds.
- She watched her new video take off overnight.
- They took off their shoes before stepping onto the carpet.
Common mistake
Learners often say “take out” instead of “take off” when they mean removing clothing (e.g., “take off your coat,” not “take out your coat”).
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.