Phrasal verb
carry off
Definition
phrasal verb. To succeed in doing something difficult, especially when you need confidence or skill. You use this when someone handles a tricky situation well.
phrasal verb. To execute a difficult task or performance successfully. Transitive; often implies a degree of poise or flair in the execution.
Examples
“She had a difficult speech to give, but she carried it off.”
“Although he was nervous about the presentation, his preparation helped him carry off the meeting with great success.”
“The young actor managed to carry off the role of the aging king with a gravitas that surprised even the most cynical critics.”
Examples
simple
“She had a difficult speech to give, but she carried it off.”
contextual
“Although he was nervous about the presentation, his preparation helped him carry off the meeting with great success.”
complex
“The young actor managed to carry off the role of the aging king with a gravitas that surprised even the most cynical critics.”
Usage
Usually takes a direct object, often a task, a role, or a specific performance.
Teaching tip
Contrast with 'pull off', which is more informal and focuses on the difficulty of the feat rather than the style of the execution.
Pitfall
He carried off to win the race.
He carried off the victory.
The phrase requires a noun object representing the achievement rather than an infinitive verb phrase.
Phrasal verb
Particles
off
Separability
optional
Pattern
carry + (object) + 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.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL 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: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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