# close off

CEFR B1 · Phrasal verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/close-off
Updated: 2026-04-24

## Definition

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

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

## Examples

- The police had to close off the street after the accident.
- They are closing off the main square this weekend to set up the Christmas market.
- Authorities decided to close off the entire coastal road due to the imminent threat of a landslide following the heavy rains.

## Pitfalls

- Not "The road was closed of for the race." but "The road was closed off for the race." — the particle 'off' requires a double 'f'; 'of' is a preposition with a different function.

## Usage notes

- 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.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.