Which sentence uses 'come across' correctly?

I came across an old photo while cleaning the attic

I came across the street to meet you

I came across an old photo while cleaning the attic

The bridge came across the river

Which sentence uses 'come across' correctly?

She comes across as very confident in interviews

He came across the finish line first

Which sentence uses 'come by' correctly?

Good jobs are hard to come by these days

The bus will come by this route

Good jobs are hard to come by these days

I come by the office every morning at 8

Which sentence uses 'come by' correctly?

Can you come by my house later for coffee?

The train came by the station too fast

She comes by the grocery store home

Which sentence uses 'come out' correctly?

The new iPhone will come out next month

I need to come out from the house now

The new iPhone will come out next month

Which sentence uses 'come out' correctly?

The truth finally came out after the investigation

The students came out to the classroom

Understanding the Phrasal Verb: Sign Off On

"Before embarking on a journey of change, one must sign off on their own intentions, lest the voyage lose its purpose and direction."

📖 Definition

To officially approve or authorize something, typically a document or decision, by signing it. It often involves formal consent.

Examples in context

The CEO signed off on the annual report after reviewing its details carefully.
Before any changes can be made, the committee must sign off on the proposal.
Once the terms were negotiated, the two companies signed off on the merger agreement.

📖 Definition

To officially approve or authorize something, typically a document or decision, by signing it. It often involves formal consent.

📝 Grammar Info

Separable

The object cannot come between 'sign' and 'off on'.

Neutral

It is used in both formal and informal contexts.

Transitive

Yes

It requires an object to act upon.

📊 Conjugation Table

Tense	Form	Example
Present Simple	sign off on	They need to sign off on the new policy.
Past Simple	signed off on	She signed off on the budget yesterday.
Present Continuous	signing off on	He is signing off on the last document.
Present Perfect	have signed off on	We have signed off on all the reports.

💡 When to Use

Approving a decision

Use this when someone is formally approving or authorizing a decision, plan, or document.

Example: "The manager will sign off on the project proposal today."

In bureaucratic processes

Used in contexts where official endorsement or consent is required, such as in governmental procedures.

Example: "The mayor must sign off on the city budget next week."

Finalizing agreements

Applied when finalizing agreements or contracts, ensuring all parties have agreed upon terms.

Example: "Both parties signed off on the contract at the meeting."

⚠️ Common Mistakes

Incorrect order

❌ Wrong: She off on signed the paperwork.

✅ Correct: She signed off on the paperwork.

💡 Tip: Remember, 'sign off on' stays together.

Missing preposition

❌ Wrong: He signed the agreement.

✅ Correct: He signed off on the agreement.

💡 Tip: Use 'sign off on' to indicate approval.

Using intransitively

❌ Wrong: They signed off on.

✅ Correct: They signed off on the draft.

💡 Tip: Always include what is being approved.

Practice

SIGN OFF ON - IN PRACTICE

Study Method Proposal

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

Examples in Context

1
Listen to example

The CEO signed off on the annual report after reviewing its details carefully.
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2
Listen to example

Before any changes can be made, the committee must sign off on the proposal.
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3
Listen to example

Once the terms were negotiated, the two companies signed off on the merger agreement.
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Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

approve authorize

Antonyms

reject

Quick Check

Complete the sentence with the correct phrasal verb:

"The board needs to ___ off on the expansion plans."

set

sign off on

take

put

In Context

In 1783, Benjamin Franklin played a crucial role in negotiating the Treaty of Paris, which ended the American Revolutionary War. The diplomats faced numerous challenges, but Franklin's wisdom and diplomatic skills were pivotal. The treaty negotiations saw Franklin signing off on key documents, ensuring favorable terms for the United States. King George III's representatives hesitated to sign off on these concessions, but Franklin's ability to persuade turned the tide. As the discussions dragged on, Franklin's insistence on fairness and his strategic vision helped transform uncertainty into resolution. Finally, on September 3, 1783, Franklin and the British counterparts were ready to sign off on the agreement. The Treaty of Paris not only signaled the end of one chapter but also the beginning of a new era for the fledgling nation. Recognized internationally, the United States, guided by Franklin and other founding figures, could now focus on building its future. Franklin's dedication to the cause of independence and his ability to negotiate under pressure were instrumental. His efforts in getting the British to sign off on the treaty demonstrated his resilience and foresight. The Treaty of Paris remains a testament to Franklin's enduring legacy in shaping American history.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions about Sign Off On

What is the origin of sign off on?

The phrase originated from the formal practice of signing a document to indicate approval. The evolution of this usage reflects the expansion of documents requiring authorization in bureaucratic and official processes.

Can sign off on be used in formal and informal contexts?

Yes, 'sign off on' is applicable in both formal and informal contexts. In professional settings, it's often used to describe official approvals, while informally, it can describe agreement or consent.

What is the difference between sign off on and approve?

'Sign off on' specifically involves signature and documentation, implying a formal process. 'Approve' is broader, indicating acceptance or agreement that may not always involve formal documentation.

Browse All Tiny House Phrasal Verbs

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

📖 Definition

📖 Definition

📝 Grammar Info

📊 Conjugation Table

💡 When to Use

⚠️ Common Mistakes

SIGN OFF ON - IN PRACTICE

Study Method Proposal

Examples in Context

Synonyms & Antonyms

Quick Check

In Context

❓ Frequently Asked Questions about Sign Off On

Related Phrasal Verbs

Alessandra Nóbrega