Definition

Verb: - To separate or remove something by using the teeth to cut or sever it quickly and decisively. This action is often done with a sudden, sharp motion.

Usage

The verb "bite off" describes the specific action of using one's teeth to detach a piece of something. It implies a quick, forceful action. It is a transitive verb and requires a direct object (the thing being bitten off).

Examples

• The puppy tried to bite off a piece of the leather shoe.
• Be careful not to bite off more than you can chew when you start a new project.
• She bit off a chunk of the hard candy.

Advanced Usage

• "to bite off more than one can chew" (Idiom): To take on a task, responsibility, or commitment that is too large or difficult to handle.
  • He realized he had bitten off more than he could chew by enrolling in five advanced courses.

Variants and Related Words

• Bite (verb): To use the teeth to cut into something. "Bite off" is a more specific phrasal verb derived from "bite."
• Snap off (verb): A close synonym meaning to break something off quickly and sharply, which can be used in both literal (e.g., with hands) and figurative contexts.

Synonyms

• Snap off: To break something off with a quick, sharp action.
• Sever: To cut or break off. (More formal and general, not specific to using teeth).
• Nip off: To bite or pinch off a small piece.

Related Phrasal Verbs

• Bite into: To sink one's teeth into something, but not necessarily to detach a piece.
  • He bit into the apple.

Related Idioms

• "Bite off more than you can chew": As defined in Advanced Usage, this is the primary idiom associated with this phrasal verb. It is used figuratively to warn against overcommitment.

Verb

1. bite off with a quick bite
   • The dog snapped off a piece of cloth from the intruder's pants