reel off

Học thuật
Thân thiện
reel off

He can reel off the names of all the state capitals from memory.

Definition

Verb: 1. To recite or say something quickly and easily from memory, often at length: To produce a list, series of statements, or other information in a fluent, rapid, and seemingly effortless manner. 2. To unwind or release something from a reel: To pull or let out a length of material (like tape, thread, or film) from a cylindrical device around which it is wound.

Usage and Examples

  • Meaning 1 (Recite):

    • The seasoned tour guide could reel off the dates of every major event in the city's history.
    • When asked about his qualifications, he reeled off a list of impressive degrees and awards.
    • She reeled off the instructions so fast I could barely write them down.

  • Meaning 2 (Unwind):

    • The angler reeled off several meters of line before casting.
    • Please reel off about ten feet of that cable so we can connect it to the projector.
Advanced Usage
  • The phrase often implies the information being recited is well-known, practiced, or memorized by the speaker.
  • It can carry a neutral, positive (impressive skill), or slightly negative (mechanical, lacking engagement) connotation depending on context.
    • He reeled off the apology without any real feeling. (Negative connotation)
    • The child proudly reeled off the alphabet backwards. (Positive connotation)
Variants and Related Words
  • Reel (verb): To wind on or draw in using a reel; to stagger or sway.
  • Reel (noun): A cylindrical device for winding something flexible; a lively dance.
  • Unreel (verb): A direct synonym for the second meaning, meaning to unwind from a reel.
Synonyms
  • For "recite" meaning: Recite, list, enumerate, rattle off, run through, detail.
  • For "unwind" meaning: Unwind, unspool, pay out, let out.
Related Phrasal Verbs
  • Reel in: To wind something back onto a reel; to attract or pull in (often figuratively).
    • He reeled in the big fish.
    • The marketing campaign reeled in thousands of new customers.
  • Reel back/away: To stagger backwards, often in shock or surprise.
    • She reeled back from the unexpected news.
Related Idioms
  • Reeling from something: To be shocked, stunned, or overwhelmed by something.
    • The community is still reeling from the sudden closure of the factory.
reel off

He can reel off the names of all the state capitals from memory.

Verb
  1. recite volubly or extravagantly
    • He could recite the names of all the chemical elements
  2. unwind from or as if from a reel
    • unreel the tape

Từ đồng nghĩa

Từ gần giống