English Reference
phrasal verb · noun

jump off

phr.v. · n.

  1. 01 A2 Elementary

    phr.v.to move from a high place to a lower place by jumping.

    phr.v.to propel oneself from an elevated surface to a lower one. This phrasal verb is typically intransitive but often takes a prepositional phrase starting with 'of' or 'from'.

    Simple

    The children liked to jump off the low wall into the sand pit.

    In context

    The stunt performer had to jump off the moving truck and land precisely on the safety mat hidden behind the crates.

    Usage

    Often followed by 'of' or 'from' to indicate the starting point.

    climb up
  2. 02 C1 Advanced SlangInformal

    phr.v.to start or happen suddenly, especially something exciting like a party or a fight.

    phr.v.to begin or occur, often with a sense of suddenness or high energy. This usage is intransitive and restricted to informal or slang contexts.

    Simple

    The party really started to jump off once the DJ arrived.

    In context

    The atmosphere in the stadium was tense, and everyone knew the protest would jump off the moment the gates opened.

    Usage

    Intransitive; does not take a direct object.

    Teacher's tip

    This is very common in hip-hop culture and urban dialects; learners should use it only in very casual settings.

  3. 03 B2 Upper Intermediate Technical Sport

    n.a final round in a horse-jumping competition to decide the winner.

    n.a deciding round in equestrian showjumping used to determine a winner among competitors who have tied with a clean first round.

    Simple

    The two riders were tied, so they had to compete in a jump-off.

    In context

    After three riders finished the main course without penalties, the gold medal was decided by a high-speed jump-off.

    Usage

    Usually hyphenated when used as a noun.

    tie breakerdecider
Teaching tip

contrast with 'jump over' (passing across something) and 'jump on' (landing on a surface); 'jump off' focuses on the departure from the high point.

Particles
off
Separability
inseparable
Pattern
jump + off + object
This entry
Level A2 · Elementary
Frequency Common
Updated