wise off
B2 informal inseparable intransitive
In simple words
To make a rude, sarcastic, or cheeky comment when you shouldn't.
Literal meaning: To act as if you are wise when speaking off — the 'wise guy' image underlies this.
Meanings
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."
Grammar: inseparable
Usage notes
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'.
Commonly used with
teacher boss parent officer superior
Forms
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
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