close off

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Explanation of "Close Off"

Definition: The phrase "close off" is a verb that means to block, isolate, or separate something. It can refer to making something unavailable or preventing access to a person or place.

Examples:

1. Physical Closing Off:

   • "The park was closed off for a special event."

2. Emotional Closing Off:

   • "After his pet died, he closed off and didn’t want to talk to anyone."

Advanced Usage:

In more advanced contexts, "close off" can be used in discussions about relationships, mental health, or safety protocols. - Example: "During the pandemic, many people felt the need to close off their social circles to stay safe."

Word Variants:

• Closed off (adjective): "She felt closed off from the world."
• Closing off (gerund): "Closing off communication can lead to misunderstandings."

Different Meanings:

While "close off" generally means to block or isolate, it can also imply creating a boundary, either physically or emotionally, in various contexts.

Synonyms:

• Block
• Isolate
• Shut off
• Restrict
• Seal off

Related Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

• Shut off: Similar meaning, often used for stopping the flow of something, like gas or water.

  • Example: "Remember to shut off the water before leaving the house."

• Cut off: To stop someone from having something or to interrupt communication.

  • Example: "She was cut off mid-sentence during the phone call."

Summary:

"Close off" is a versatile phrase that can be used in various contexts to indicate blocking, isolating, or preventing access.

Academic

Verb

1. block off the passage through
   • We shut off the valve
2. isolate or separate
   • She was shut off from the friends
3. stem the flow of
   • shut off the gas when you leave for a vacation

Synonyms

• shut off
• block off