make off
B2 neutral inseparable intransitive
In simple words
Run away fast, usually after doing something bad.
Meanings
1 B2
idiomatic
neutral
To leave hurriedly, typically to avoid capture or consequences after wrongdoing.
"The pickpocket grabbed the wallet and made off before anyone could react."
Grammar: inseparable
2 B2
idiomatic
informal
To depart suddenly and without explanation.
"He made off without saying goodbye to anyone at the party."
Grammar: inseparable
Usage notes
Often used in news reports, crime narratives, and formal writing. Almost always implies guilt or wrongdoing. Frequently followed by 'with' to indicate what was taken.
Commonly used with
quickly hastily into the night on foot in a car before police arrived
Forms
Base
make off
I/you/we/they
3rd person
makes off
he/she/it
Past simple
made off
yesterday
Past participle
made off
have + pp
-ing form
making off
continuous
Understand "make off" better
Try:
Real video examples
Video examples are being collected. Check back soon.
Synonyms
Want to master this phrasal verb?
Practice "make off" on Looplines