Browse all

switch off

A2 neutral separable both
In simple words

To press a button or flip a switch to stop a machine or light, or to stop thinking and relax.

Literal meaning: To move a switch into the off position — physically flipping a mechanism to stop electricity flowing.

Meanings

1 A2 neutral

To stop a machine, light, or electronic device from operating by using a switch.

"Could you switch off the kitchen light when you leave?"

Grammar: separable
2 B1 idiomatic informal

To stop paying attention, relax mentally, or mentally disengage from a situation.

"After a twelve-hour shift, she just needed to switch off and watch something mindless."

Grammar: inseparable
3 B2 idiomatic informal

To cause someone to lose interest or feel repelled by something.

"His constant negativity really switched me off — I stopped wanting to spend time with him."

Grammar: separable
Usage notes

One of the most common and basic phrasal verbs. The figurative sense (mentally disengaging) is very common in informal British English. Both senses are used worldwide in everyday conversation.

Commonly used with

light TV phone alarm brain engine

Forms

Base
switch off
I/you/we/they
3rd person
switches off
he/she/it
Past simple
switched off
yesterday
Past participle
switched off
have + pp
-ing form
switching off
continuous

Understand "switch off" better

Try:

Real video examples

Video examples are being collected. Check back soon.

Synonyms

turn off shut off deactivate power down disconnect unplug

Want to master this phrasal verb?

Practice "switch off" on Looplines