Phrasal verb
branch off
Definition
phrasal verb. to separate from a main road, path, or topic and go in a different direction. You use this when one thing splits into two parts.
phrasal verb. to diverge from a primary route, structure, or subject of discussion. The verb is typically intransitive and describes the point of physical or thematic separation.
Examples
“The small path branches off to the left.”
“About two miles down the main highway, a narrow dirt road branches off toward the coast.”
“The discussion on urban planning began to branch off into a debate regarding the ethics of gentrification and historical preservation.”
Examples
simple
“The small path branches off to the left.”
contextual
“About two miles down the main highway, a narrow dirt road branches off toward the coast.”
complex
“The discussion on urban planning began to branch off into a debate regarding the ethics of gentrification and historical preservation.”
Usage
Usually used without a direct object or followed by 'from' to indicate the source of the split.
Teaching tip
Contrast with 'branch out', which refers to expanding one's activities or business interests rather than a physical or thematic separation.
Pitfall
The company decided to branch off into new markets.
The company decided to branch out into new markets.
Learners often use 'branch off' when they mean 'branch out' to describe business expansion or trying new activities.
Phrasal verb
Particles
off
Separability
inseparable
Pattern
branch + off
Synonyms
Antonyms
Grammar
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B1 PreliminaryIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.4.0–5.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 3.0–3.544–71TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.550–784
- Level
- B1 · Intermediate
- Updated
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