# count off

CEFR B2 · Phrasal verb

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

## Definition

to say numbers out loud in a sequence to check how many people or things are in a group.

For teachers: to recite numbers in a series to verify a total or to assign individuals to specific subgroups.

## Examples

- The teacher asked the students to count off by twos.
- Before boarding the bus, the tour guide had everyone count off to ensure no one was left behind.
- The sergeant commanded the platoon to count off, ensuring every soldier was present and accounted for before the drill commenced.

## Pitfalls

- Not "They counted off them." but "They counted them off." — when using a pronoun as the object, it must go between the verb and the particle.

## Usage notes

- often used with 'by' to indicate the interval, such as 'count off by threes'.
- Teaching tip: this is a common classroom management phrase; distinguish it from 'count on' (rely) or 'count out' (exclude).

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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.