switch off

USAGE SUMMARY

"switch off" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use "switch off" when you want to refer to turning off a machine or other device. For example, "Be sure to switch off the lights before you leave the room."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

I switch off.

The New Yorker

You switch off.

The New York Times

Switch off your golden hair.

The New Yorker

It's somewhere to switch off.

Independent

2. Switch off gas/electricity.

The New Yorker

"Please switch off your phones".

Independent

You switch off your phone.

The New York Times

Switch off the TV.

The Guardian - Sport

People just switch off.

The Guardian

They switch off.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

It's a nice switch-off.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "switch off" metaphorically to express a disengagement from a task or topic, for example, "I try to switch off from work during the weekends".

Common error

Be mindful of the context when using "switch off". Ensure it's clear whether you're referring to a device being turned off or a mental disengagement. Add clarifying words when needed to avoid confusion.

Linguistic Context

The phrasal verb "switch off" primarily functions as an action verb, indicating the act of ceasing the operation of a device or disengaging mentally. This usage is validated by Ludwig AI and supported by numerous examples, such as "Please switch off your phones".

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

35%

Science

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "switch off" is a versatile phrasal verb with two primary meanings: to cease the operation of a device and to mentally disengage. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, this phrase is grammatically correct and commonly used, particularly in news and media contexts. When using "switch off", ensure clarity in your context, specifying whether you're referring to a device or a mental state. Consider alternatives like "turn off" or "tune out" to add nuance or variety to your writing. By following these guidelines, you can effectively and accurately use "switch off" in your communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

turn off

A direct synonym referring to ceasing the operation of a device.

power down

Implies a more controlled and complete cessation of power.

shut down

Similar to power down, often used for computers or complex systems.

deactivate

Suggests a formal or intentional disabling of something.

tune out

Refers to mentally disengaging or ignoring something.

zone out

Similar to tune out, but often implies a less conscious disengagement.

lose interest

Focuses on the emotional or mental disengagement.

alternate between

Highlights the act of changing back and forth.

change over

Implies a transition from one state or option to another.

discontinue

Refers to stopping something permanently or for an extended period.

FAQs

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

You can use "switch off" to mean turning off a device, as in "Please "switch off" the lights". It can also mean to disengage mentally, as in "I need to "switch off" from work."

What is a good alternative to "switch off"?

Depending on the context, you could use "turn off", "power down", or "tune out" as alternatives to "switch off".

Is it correct to say "switched off"?

Yes, "switched off" is the past tense and past participle of "switch off". For example, "I "switched off" the television" or "The television was "switched off"".

What's the difference between "switch off" and "turn off"?

In most contexts, "switch off" and "turn off" are interchangeable when referring to devices. However, "switch off" can also refer to mentally disengaging, which "turn off" doesn't usually convey.