1 C1 idiomatic informal
To experience strong pleasure or excitement from something, especially something intense or unconventional.
"He seems to get off on being the most controversial person in the room."
inseparable
get off on
C1 informal inseparable transitive
To derive great pleasure or excitement from something, often in a way others find odd or disturbing.
In plain English
To really enjoy something in a strong, excited way — sometimes in a way that seems strange.
What does "get off on" mean?
2 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 C1 idiomatic informal
To be sexually aroused or gratified by something.
"The psychologist noted that the suspect seemed to get off on the fear he caused."
inseparable
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
To leave or depart from something ('off') while riding it ('on') — the idiomatic meaning is a large leap from this.
Actually means
To really enjoy something in a strong, excited way — sometimes in a way that seems strange.
Usage tip
Primarily used in British and American English informal speech. Can carry a sexual connotation depending on context, so use with caution in professional settings. The subject is always a person.
Words that pair with "get off on"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
power attention fear control danger excitement
How to conjugate "get off on"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
get off on
I/you/we/they
3rd person
gets off on
he/she/it
Past simple
got off on
yesterday
Past participle
got/gotten off on
have + pp
-ing form
getting off on
continuous
Hear "get off on" in the wild
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Other ways to say "get off on"
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