tape it off

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "tape it off" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when instructing someone to cover or secure an area with tape, often in contexts like painting or marking boundaries. Example: "Before you start painting, make sure to tape it off to protect the edges."

✓ Grammatically correct

Wiki

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

15 human-written examples

Solving the problem developed into the idea for TIOTI.com - Tape It Off The Internet.

The Guardian - Tech

We give you Paul Cleghorn, formerly of Aggregator.tv, now co-founder of Tape It Off The Internet.

TechCrunch

TIOTI (Tape It Off The Internet) is a social network around TV shows which links to online TV services such as Apple, Amazon, AOL and Joost, amongst others.

TechCrunch

TIOTI.com (Tape It Off The Internet) has been almost a year in closed, invite-only beta so hopefully today it's ready for its close-up.

TechCrunch

There is a bit of buzz tonight about an upcoming TV download service called TIOTI, for "Tape it off the Internet".

TechCrunch

It will be chaired by Mike Butcher – mbites and the panel will include Richard Anson – CEO of Reevoo, Paul Pod – Co-Founder, TIOTI: Tape It Off The Internet and Umair Haque – Principal, Bubblegeneration.

TechCrunch

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

45 human-written examples

It sounded like whoever made it had just taped it off the radio.

The New Yorker

(I had taped it off late-night television some time in the eighties).

The New Yorker

I was a freshman in high school, and I'd taped it off cable.

Vice

And our biggest contribution to helping humanity was buying the single of "We are the World," and, even then, most of us taped it off the radio.

Huffington Post

When we arrived at one crime scene, the police had already taped it off, and the body was about 50 feet away.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "tape it off" for painting projects, use painter's tape to avoid damaging the surface underneath.

Common error

Avoid using strong adhesive tapes like duct tape on delicate surfaces as they can leave residue or damage the surface when removed. Opt for masking or painter's tape instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "tape it off" primarily functions as a phrasal verb. It instructs an action to cover or secure an area or object using tape. As Ludwig confirms, this usage is correct and applicable in diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

Wiki

33%

News & Media

30%

Science

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

10%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "tape it off" is a common and grammatically sound phrasal verb used to instruct someone to cover or secure an area with tape. As Ludwig confirms, it finds its place in diverse contexts, especially DIY guides and news reports. Although versatile, the phrase tends towards informal usage. Remember to consider the surface and choose the appropriate type of tape to avoid damage. If you're looking for alternatives, consider "mask it off" or "seal it off", depending on the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

mask it off

This alternative emphasizes covering an area to protect it from paint or other substances.

seal it off

This suggests completely closing an area, often for isolation or protection.

cover it with tape

A more literal description of the action, focusing on the act of applying tape.

apply tape to it

Similar to 'cover it with tape', but with a slightly different emphasis on the application process.

secure it with tape

This alternative highlights the purpose of using tape to fasten or hold something.

bind it with tape

This emphasizes the act of wrapping something tightly with tape.

affix it with tape

A more formal way of saying to attach something using tape.

fasten it with tape

This is similar to 'secure it with tape', highlighting the act of making something stay in place.

stick tape on it

A simple and direct way of saying to attach tape to something.

put tape over it

This indicates placing tape on top of something for covering or securing.

FAQs

How can I use "tape it off" in a sentence?

You can use "tape it off" to instruct someone to cover or secure an area with tape, often in contexts like painting or marking boundaries. For instance, "Before you paint, make sure to tape it off to protect the trim."

What is a good alternative to "tape it off"?

Alternatives include "mask it off" or "seal it off", depending on the specific context and desired level of protection.

Is it better to "tape it off" or "mask it off" when painting?

"Tape it off" and "mask it off" are often interchangeable in painting contexts. However, "mask it off" specifically implies covering an area to protect it from paint, while "tape it off" can have a broader meaning.

When is it appropriate to use "tape it off" instead of "cover it with tape"?

"Tape it off" is best used when you want to define a specific area or boundary with tape, whereas "cover it with tape" suggests a more general application of tape over a surface. Consider "seal it off" if complete closure is your goal.