bite off
Học thuậtThân thiện
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
- bite off with a quick bite
- The dog snapped off a piece of cloth from the intruder's pants