"To truly thrive, one must learn to throw off the chains of doubt and embrace the freedom of new beginnings."

📖 Definition

The phrasal verb 'throw off' means to rid oneself of something burdensome or unwanted, often referring to thoughts, constraints, or physical entities.

Examples in context

📖 Definition

The phrasal verb 'throw off' means to rid oneself of something burdensome or unwanted, often referring to thoughts, constraints, or physical entities.

📝 Grammar Info

Separable
Yes
The phrase can be split by the object, e.g., 'throw the scarf off'.
Register
Neutral
Suitable for use in both informal and formal contexts.
Transitive
Yes
Requires a direct object as it indicates action performed on something.

📊 Conjugation Table

Tense Form Example
Present Simple throw off I often try to throw off negative thoughts.
Past Simple threw off She threw off her coat as she entered.
Present Continuous throwing off He is throwing off his old habits.
Present Perfect have thrown off They have thrown off their initial nervousness.

💡 When to Use

Overcoming constraints
Use this when describing actions taken to free oneself from physical or mental constraints.
Example: "He threw off his inhibitions and spoke freely."
Resisting influence
Use when discussing resistance to external control or influence, often referencing authority.
Example: "The country decided to throw off colonial rule."
Dispelling emotions
Use when talking about ridding oneself of unwanted emotions, feelings, or thoughts.
Example: "She threw off her anxiety before the presentation."

⚠️ Common Mistakes

Incorrect object placement
❌ Wrong: Throw off the sweater it.
✅ Correct: Throw the sweater off it.
💡 Tip: Place the object directly after 'throw'.
Unnecessary preposition
❌ Wrong: He threw off away his doubts.
✅ Correct: He threw off his doubts.
💡 Tip: Avoid adding prepositions after 'throw off'.
Incorrect tense
❌ Wrong: They throwed off their fears.
✅ Correct: They threw off their fears.
💡 Tip: Use 'threw' as the past form.
Practice

THROW OFF - IN PRACTICE

Study Method Proposal

  1. Listen and repeat the audio as many times as needed to improve your pronunciation
  2. Use the audio as a dictation exercise, trying to write what you hear and understand
  3. Create a new sentence following the structure of the example sentences

Examples in Context

  • 1
    Listen to example

    After months of practice, he finally threw off his nervousness about public speaking.

    Words Multiplied
  • 2
    Listen to example

    The snake threw off its old skin under the warm sun.

    Words Multiplied
  • 3
    Listen to example

    Determined to succeed, she threw off the negative feedback and continued her project.

    Words Multiplied

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

discard shed

Antonyms

retain

Quick Check

Complete the sentence with the correct phrasal verb:

"She finally decided to ___ her insecurities and be confident."

threw away
throw off
hold on
cling

Frequently Asked Questions about Throw Off

What is the origin of throw off?

+
The phrase 'throw off' originates from the physical act of throwing something aside. Over time, it evolved to symbolize liberating oneself from burdens.

Can throw off be used in formal and informal contexts?

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Yes, 'throw off' is versatile and can be used in both formal writings and informal conversations, depending on the context of overcoming something.

What is the difference between throw off and discard?

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'Throw off' implies a sense of liberation from constraints, often emotional or influential, while 'discard' is more about getting rid of physical items.
Browse All Words Multiplied Phrasal Verbs
Human Communication Phrasal Verbs - WeeklyCross
Alessandra Nóbrega
About the Author

Alessandra Nóbrega

History teacher who fell in love with English! This passion led me to specialize in languages and work on bilingual education projects. With 37 years in education, I believe learning should be meaningful – not just memorization.

Learn more about my journey



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