to get off

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "to get off" is a common and correct usage in written English.
You can use it to mean "to depart" (as in a vehicle) or "to stop or discontinue" (an activity or action). For example: We decided to get off the bus at the next stop. OR She knew she needed to get off the phone soon and get back to work.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"We need to get off".

The New York Times

"I want to get off".

The New Yorker

("I want to get off right now").

The New Yorker

They are unlikely to get off altogether.

The Economist

"You have to get off the levee.

The New Yorker

Anything else to get off his chest?

Independent

I wanted to get off the highway.

The New York Times

"I'm going to get off now.

The New Yorker

Feel the need to get off campus?

Cornell University

I'm fixin' to get off the bus.

Yale University

It's time to get off the treadmill.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "to get off" in the context of transportation, ensure clarity by specifying the mode of transport (e.g., "to get off the bus", "to get off the train").

Common error

Avoid using "to get off" in ambiguous situations where it could be misinterpreted as having a vulgar connotation. Choose alternative phrases like "to disembark" or "to leave" for clarity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to get off" functions as an infinitive phrase, often acting as a verb complement or part of a larger verb phrase. Ludwig AI confirms this with numerous examples where "to get off" indicates exiting a vehicle, discontinuing an activity, or expressing a desire to be relieved of something.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Academia

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "to get off" is a versatile infinitive phrase with multiple meanings, ranging from the literal act of disembarking to the more abstract idea of ceasing an activity. As Ludwig AI confirms, its grammatical status is correct and very common, spanning diverse contexts from news to academia. However, due to its potential for ambiguity, especially with slang usages, writers should exercise caution and choose alternative phrases like "to disembark" or "to alight" for increased clarity in formal or sensitive situations. Remembering the nuances of "to get off" ensures effective and appropriate communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to disembark

Refers specifically to leaving a vehicle or aircraft.

to step off

Implies a physical action of moving from a higher level to a lower one.

to alight

A more formal synonym for disembarking, typically from public transport.

to exit

A general term for leaving a place or vehicle.

to leave

A broad term indicating departure from a location or situation.

to climb down

Specifically refers to descending from something.

to be relieved of

Indicates being freed from a duty or obligation.

to escape

Suggests avoiding something dangerous or unpleasant.

to cease

A formal term for stopping an action or process.

to abstain from

Implies refraining from something, often a habit or indulgence.

FAQs

What does the phrase "to get off" mean?

The phrase "to get off" has multiple meanings. It can mean to leave a vehicle or public transport. It can also mean to stop doing something or to be relieved of a responsibility. A third, more informal meaning, is related to sexual excitement. The context usually makes the intended meaning clear.

How can I use "to get off" in a sentence?

Here are a few examples: "I need "to get off" at the next stop." (leaving a vehicle), "It's time "to get off" the treadmill." (stop an activity), "He's trying "to get off" death row." (be relieved of a sentence).

What are some alternatives to "to get off" when referring to leaving a vehicle?

If you want to avoid ambiguity, you can use alternatives like "to disembark" or "to alight".

Is "to get off" formal or informal?

The formality of "to get off" depends on the context. In general usage such as leaving a bus, it's considered neutral. But when there's a potential of sexual innuendo, it may be considered informal and inappropriate. Alternatives like "to disembark" are typically more formal.