1 B2 idiomatic informal
To make a sarcastic, impertinent, or disrespectful remark, especially to someone in authority.
"Don't wise off to the coach or you'll find yourself sitting on the bench all season."
inseparable
wise off
B2 informal inseparable intransitive
To make sarcastic, impertinent, or disrespectful remarks, especially to someone in authority.
In plain English
To make a rude, sarcastic, or cheeky comment when you shouldn't.
What does "wise off" mean?
One main meaning — here's how to use it.
Literal vs figurative
Words literally mean
To act as if you are wise when speaking off — the 'wise guy' image underlies this.
Actually means
To make a rude, sarcastic, or cheeky comment when you shouldn't.
Usage tip
Primarily American English. Often used in the negative as a warning: 'Don't wise off to me.' Implies the speaker thinks they are clever or funny, but the remark is seen as disrespectful by the person addressed. Related to 'wisecrack' and 'wiseguy'.
Words that pair with "wise off"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
teacher boss parent officer superior
How to conjugate "wise off"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
wise off
I/you/we/they
3rd person
wises off
he/she/it
Past simple
wised off
yesterday
Past participle
wised off
have + pp
-ing form
wising off
continuous
Hear "wise off" in the wild
Listen to native speakers using "wise off" in real YouTube videos — click a clip to watch it on Looplines.
Keep exploring
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