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