SHUT OFF Meaning and
Definition
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"Shut off" is a phrasal verb that has multiple meanings depending on the context in which it is used. Primarily, it refers to the action of closing or blocking something, typically to restrict access, flow or passage.
One common usage of "shut off" relates to the control of electricity or water supply. In this sense, it refers to turning off or disconnecting the flow of these utilities by means of a switch, valve, or other mechanism. For instance, "shutting off the water supply to a leaking pipe" implies closing the valve or faucet to stop the water flow.
Additionally, "shut off" can describe the action of isolating or separating someone or something from others, usually for security or privacy purposes. For example, "shutting off the audience from the backstage area" refers to closing a door or using a barrier to prevent unauthorized access.
In a figurative sense, "shut off" can also denote the act of mentally disengaging or isolating oneself from others or from external stimulation. It can describe withdrawing from social interaction or closing oneself off emotionally. For instance, "he shut himself off from the world after his breakup" suggests that the person chose to seclude themselves emotionally or socially.
Overall, "shut off" encompasses the acts of closing or blocking something physically, isolating oneself from others, and discontinuing the flow of utilities.
Common Misspellings for SHUT OFF
- ahut off
- zhut off
- xhut off
- dhut off
- ehut off
- whut off
- sgut off
- sbut off
- snut off
- sjut off
- suut off
- syut off
- shyt off
- shht off
- shjt off
- shit off
- sh8t off
- sh7t off
- shur off
Etymology of SHUT OFF
The word "shut off" is formed by combining two separate words: "shut" and "off".
The word "shut" came from the Old English word "scyttan" which meant "to close" or "to block". It can be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "skutjaną" which carried a similar meaning.
The word "off" originated from the Old English word "of" or "offa", which indicated the action of separation or removal. It ultimately comes from the Proto-Germanic word "af" with the same meaning.
When these two words are combined into "shut off", the phrase signifies the act of closing or blocking something, while simultaneously separating it or removing access.
Idioms with the word SHUT OFF
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shut off (sth)
The idiom "shut off (sth)" means to stop or cut off the flow or supply of something, typically by closing a valve, switch, or control. It can be used in both literal and figurative contexts. For example, shutting off a water supply by closing a valve, shutting off electricity by flipping a switch, or shutting off emotions by disconnecting or closing oneself off from others.
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shut off
To stop the flow or supply of something, such as water, power, or emotions.
Similar spelling words for SHUT OFF
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