off the fire

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "off the fire" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to removing something from a heat source, typically in cooking contexts. Example: "After simmering for an hour, take the pot off the fire and let it cool."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Entering the stairwell sets off the fire alarm.

The New York Times

"When the sprinkler goes off, the fire goes out.

The New York Times

He sets off the fire alarm, runs in the hall and uses inappropriate language in class.

The New York Times - Books

Investigators said a faulty space heater may have set off the fire.

The New York Times

Or he might set off the fire alarm and grab some pancakes amid the ensuing chaos.

The Economist

Through all that, however, two mysteries remained: How she set off the fire and why.

The New York Times

We were pumping out smoke and we set off the fire alarms.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The shooter had smoke bombs, she was told, which had set off the fire alarm.

The New Yorker

We all jumped out with our women and daughters put off the fire.

The Guardian

"When they come to an alarm and the smoke detector has gone off, the fire department does not charge us.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

The moves were the same, though the chicken was pulled off the fire before it turned dry.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "off the fire" in cooking instructions, be specific about the timing or visual cues for when to remove the dish from the heat. For example, "Simmer for 20 minutes, or until the sauce thickens, then take it "off the fire".

Common error

Avoid using "off the fire" in contexts where extinguishing a larger fire is meant, as it primarily refers to removing something from a heat source in cooking or controlled environments. For larger fires use phrases like "put out the fire" or "extinguish the fire".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "off the fire" primarily functions as an adverbial phrase indicating the removal of an item from a heat source. As confirmed by Ludwig, it's most often used in cooking contexts. Examples show instructions such as taking a pot "off the fire" after simmering.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Wiki

40%

Science

20%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "off the fire" is a grammatically sound and usable phrase, as determined by Ludwig, primarily used to instruct the removal of something from a heat source, typically in cooking. While not overly formal, its directness makes it suitable for recipes and general guidance. The phrase is found mainly in news and media contexts. Consider alternatives like "remove from the heat" or "take off the heat" for similar meanings. When using it, clarity is key; ensure the context makes the intended action clear.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

remove from the heat

This alternative is more general and emphasizes the removal from a heat source.

take off the heat

Similar to 'remove from the heat', this option is commonly used in cooking instructions.

take off the burner

This phrase is specific to cooking situations where a burner is used.

extinguish the fire

This phrase focuses on stopping a fire, not necessarily in a cooking context.

put out the fire

Another common way to describe stopping a fire.

kill the fire

This phrase is a more direct way to describe stopping a fire, although it can sound harsh.

halt the fire

Focuses on stopping the fire's progress or spread.

withdraw from the flames

This is a more descriptive and evocative way to say 'off the fire', suitable for narrative contexts.

remove from the flames

Similar to 'withdraw from the flames', but more straightforward.

cut the fire

This is more technical and is used to cut off the supply, often used with gas or electrical fires.

FAQs

How do I use "off the fire" in a sentence?

The phrase "off the fire" is generally used in cooking contexts. For example, "Take the pan "off the fire" once the sauce has thickened."

What can I say instead of "off the fire"?

You can use alternatives like "remove from the heat", "take off the heat", or "extinguish the fire" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "off the fire" or "off of the fire"?

"Off the fire" is the correct and more concise form. "Off of the fire" is redundant and less common.

Is "off the fire" only used in cooking?

While primarily used in cooking, "off the fire" can also be used metaphorically to indicate a reduction in intensity or pressure, though this usage is less common.