close off

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "close off" can be used in written English.
It means to block off or seal off something, usually with a physical object. Example: We had to close off the entrance to the building so that no one could get in.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Close off the kitchenette, too.

The New Yorker

We can't close off our base.

The New York Times

This doesn't close off the possibility of elevated musicianship.

The New York Times - Arts

Walls don't close off possibilities in Le Guin.

The Guardian - Books

"We had to close off 20 blocks - 20 blocks!

The New York Times - Magazine

"We didn't close off all the rock areas," he said.

The New York Times

However, it didn't close off the possibility entirely.

The New Yorker

"Will they close off the whole park?" he asked.

The New York Times

Panels slide to open and close off space at will.

The New York Times

To prevent rodent infestations, clean up food sources and close off pest entry points.

Stanford University

It failed to close off the flow when activated just before the explosion.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "close off", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being blocked or sealed. For instance, "close off the street" is clearer than simply "close off".

Common error

Avoid using "close off" without specifying what is being closed off. For example, instead of saying "We need to close off", specify "We need to close off the area to the public".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "close off" primarily functions as a phrasal verb. It is used to describe the action of blocking or sealing something, preventing access or flow. Ludwig's examples showcase both literal and figurative uses of this verb.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

39%

Wiki

38%

Science

8%

Less common in

Forbes

5%

The New Yorker

5%

Academia

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "close off" is a versatile phrasal verb meaning to block or seal something, preventing access or flow. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usage. It appears frequently in News & Media and Wiki contexts. While primarily used in a neutral register, it's important to specify what is being closed off for clarity. Alternatives include "seal off", "blockade", and "restrict access", each with subtle differences. Remembering these nuances will enhance the precision and impact of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

seal off

This phrase emphasizes making an area completely inaccessible, often for security reasons.

shut off

This implies stopping the flow of something, like water or electricity, in addition to preventing entry.

cut off

Emphasizes severing connection or access.

cordon off

This is often used by law enforcement to restrict access to an area, typically a crime scene.

restrict access

This alternative emphasizes limiting who or what can enter or use something.

blockade

This alternative suggests a more forceful and often military action to prevent access.

barricade

Implies creating a makeshift barrier to prevent entry or exit.

isolate

This alternative highlights the act of separating something from its surroundings.

obstruct

This term suggests hindering or preventing movement or progress.

impede

Focuses on slowing down or hindering progress or access.

FAQs

How can I use "close off" in a sentence?

You can use "close off" to describe physically blocking access to a place, like "The police had to "cordon off" the area", or metaphorically, like "Don't "close off" opportunities by being too rigid".

What's the difference between "close off" and "seal off"?

"Close off" generally means to block access, while "seal off" suggests making an area completely airtight or inaccessible, often for safety or security reasons. "Seal off" implies a higher level of prevention.

What can I say instead of "close off"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives like "blockade", "restrict access", or "shut off". The best choice depends on the specific meaning you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "close off from"?

While not inherently incorrect, it's more common and often clearer to simply use "close off" followed by the object being closed off. For example, "close off the street" is preferable to "close off from the street".