ENGLISH
REFERENCE

close off

phr. v..
B1 Intermediate Oxford

phr. v.. to block an entrance or a path so that people cannot enter or pass through.

phr. v.. to obstruct or seal an entrance, thoroughfare, or area to prevent access; often used in the context of physical barriers or police cordons.


SIMPLE

The police had to close off the street after the accident.

CONTEXTUAL

They are closing off the main square this weekend to set up the Christmas market.

COMPLEX

Authorities decided to close off the entire coastal road due to the imminent threat of a landslide following the heavy rains.

Particles
off
Separability
optional
Pattern
close + (object) + off
Usage

usually takes a physical space, such as a road, room, or area, as its object.

Teaching tip

contrast with 'close' (simply shutting a door) and 'block' (which might be accidental); 'close off' implies a deliberate action to stop all traffic or entry.

Pitfall

The road was closed of for the race.The road was closed off for the race.the particle 'off' requires a double 'f'; 'of' is a preposition with a different function.

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