“Blew off” is a phrasal verb that is commonly used in the English language. It has multiple meanings and associations, depending on the context in which it is used. In this article, we will explore the different definitions and meanings of “blew off,” its origin, and its synonyms and antonyms.
Definitions
The term “blew off” can have several different meanings depending on the context in which it is used. Some of the most common definitions include:
- To cancel or ignore an appointment or obligation.
- To dismiss or disregard something or someone.
- To release pressure or steam from a container or object.
Origin
The origin of the term “blew off” is not entirely clear. However, it is believed that the phrase may have originated from the act of releasing pressure from a container or object. In this context, the term “blow off” was used to describe the process of releasing steam or pressure from a boiler or engine.
Meaning in different dictionaries
According to the Merriam-Webster dictionary, “blew off” means to fail to keep an appointment with someone or to cancel an obligation. The Cambridge dictionary defines it as to dismiss or ignore something or someone. The Oxford dictionary defines it as to release pressure or steam from a container or object.
Associations
The term “blew off” is often associated with negative connotations. It can be used to describe someone who is unreliable or irresponsible, as in “He blew off our meeting again.” It can also be used to describe someone who is dismissive or disrespectful, as in “She just blew off my concerns.”
Synonyms
Some synonyms of “blew off” include:
- Cancelled.
- Ignored.
- Dismissed.
- Disregarded.
- Skipped.
- Postponed.
Antonyms
Some antonyms of “blew off” include:
- Attended.
- Kept.
- Respected.
- Honored.
- Acknowledged.
The same root words
The term “blew off” is derived from the verb “blow,” which means to create a flow of air or gas. Some other words that share the same root as “blew off” include:
- Blown.
- Blower.
- Blowout.
- Blowing.
Example Sentences
- “I’m sorry, but I have to blow off our dinner plans tonight.”
- “He blew off my request for a meeting and didn’t respond to my emails.”
- “The pressure in the boiler was too high, so we had to blow off some steam.”
- “She blew off my concerns about the project and said everything was fine.”
In conclusion, “blew off” is a phrasal verb that has multiple meanings and associations. It can be used to describe someone who is unreliable or dismissive, or to describe the act of releasing pressure from a container or object. Understanding the different definitions and contexts in which “blew off” is used can help you to use it correctly in your own writing and conversations.