come off
- 01 B1 Intermediate
to become separated or fall away from something it was attached to.
to become detached or separated from a main body or surface.
Simple“The handle of the cup came off while I was washing it.”
In context“The label had started to peel at the corners and eventually came off entirely after being exposed to the damp air in the warehouse.”
UsageIntransitive; the subject is the part that detaches.
- 02 B2 Upper Intermediate
to happen successfully, especially when you have planned something.
to be successful or to be achieved as intended; often used of schemes, plans, or performances.
Simple“I was worried about the surprise party, but it really came off well.”
In context“Despite the logistical hurdles and the last-minute cancellations, the ambitious charity gala came off without a single major hitch.”
UsageIntransitive; usually follows a subject like 'plan', 'scheme', or 'event'.
- 03 B2 Upper Intermediate
to give a particular impression of your personality to other people.
to project a specific personal quality or to be perceived by others in a particular way.
Simple“He can come off as a bit arrogant, but he is actually just shy.”
In context“In interviews, the candidate tended to come off as overly defensive whenever the panel questioned her previous employment record.”
UsageUsually followed by 'as' plus an adjective or noun phrase.
PitfallHe comes off as a rude person. He comes off as rude.While both are used, 'come off as' is most naturally followed directly by an adjective or a noun phrase describing the quality.
- 04 B2 Upper Intermediate
to stop taking a medicine or using a drug.
to cease the consumption of a medication, drug, or habit-forming substance.
Simple“The doctor helped him come off the painkillers gradually.”
In context“Patients are advised not to come off their antidepressants abruptly without consulting a healthcare professional first.”
UsageTransitive; requires a direct object representing the substance.
contrast with 'succeed' (more general) and 'happen' (neutral); 'come off' specifically implies that a planned effort worked out.