1 C1 neutral
To enclose or separate part of a space with a partition or box-like structure, often to hide something or create a defined area.
"They boxed off the alcove under the stairs to create extra storage space."
separable
box off
C1 neutral separable transitive
To enclose or separate a space or area by surrounding it with a box-like structure or partition.
In plain English
To put a wall or barrier around part of a room or area to separate it from the rest.
What does "box off" mean?
One main meaning — here's how to use it.
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
To create a box around something, partitioning it off from its surroundings.
Actually means
To put a wall or barrier around part of a room or area to separate it from the rest.
Usage tip
Primarily used in construction, interior design, and building contexts. Rarely used figuratively. More common in British English than American English.
Words that pair with "box off"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
area corner space pipes cables room
How to conjugate "box off"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
box off
I/you/we/they
3rd person
boxes off
he/she/it
Past simple
boxed off
yesterday
Past participle
boxed off
have + pp
-ing form
boxing off
continuous
Hear "box off" in the wild
Listen to native speakers using "box off" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
Other ways to say "box off"
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Keep exploring
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