What is throw off? How to use in English

Definition & pronunciation of throw off

throw offphrasal verb

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Where does the word throw off come from?

The origin of the phrase "throw off" can be traced back to the Old English word "θrywan," meaning "to push away" or "to cast off." This word evolved in Middle English to "throwen" or "throwe," with the same meaning. In the context of ships and boats, "throw off" first appeared in the late 16th century to describe the action of disembarking from a vessel or releasing an anchor, which was done by throwing the object overboard. It was also used to describe abandoning or shaking off an obstacle, such as shaking off a pursuer or shedding heavy clothing. Over time, the meaning of "throw off" has broadened to include shrugging off or dismissing an idea or responsibility, as well as moving or throwing something with force or violence. Today, it is a versatile idiom with a variety of meanings, but its roots in the nautical world remain apparent in expressions like "cast off" and "heave off."

Example of vocabulary throw offnamespace

meaning

to manage to get rid of something/somebody that is making you suffer, annoying you, etc.

  • to throw off a cold/your worries/your pursuers
meaning

to take off a piece of clothing quickly and carelessly

  • She entered the room and threw off her wet coat.

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