Definition

Verb: 1. To formally end a broadcast, especially a radio or television transmission: This is the primary meaning, referring to the act of concluding a scheduled period of broadcasting, often marked by a specific announcement or signal. 2. To indicate one's approval or completion by signing a document: While the core definition focuses on broadcasting, the verb can also be used more generally to mean formally concluding or approving something, often with a signature.

Usage Examples

• Verb (Broadcasting):
  • The local radio station will sign off at midnight.
  • After the national anthem, the channel signed off for the night.
• Verb (General Conclusion/Approval):
  • The manager needs to sign off on the budget before we proceed.
  • I've finished the report; I just need you to sign off on it.

Advanced Usage

• "to sign off on something": To give official approval or authorization for something, typically by signing a document.
  • The committee must sign off on the new policy before it is implemented.
• "to sign off with [a phrase/song]": To conclude a broadcast with a particular customary element.
  • The host always signs off with his famous catchphrase.

Variants and Related Words

• Sign-off (noun): The act or instance of ending a broadcast, or the concluding segment itself.
  • We listened to the DJ's emotional sign-off.
• Sign (verb): To write one's name on a document.
• Off (adverb/preposition): Indicating cessation or separation.

Synonyms

• Conclude (a broadcast): To bring something to an end.
• Cease transmission: To stop broadcasting.
• Approve: To officially agree to or accept.
• Authorize: To give official permission for.

Related Phrasal Verbs

• Sign on: To begin broadcasting; to start a period of transmission.
  • The station signs on at 6 a.m. every day.
• Sign out: To record one's departure by signing a register; to log off from a computer system.
  • Remember to sign out of your account when you're done.

Related Idioms

• Sign off on the dotted line: To formally agree to something by signing a contract. (This idiom uses "sign off" in its general approval sense, combined with the common phrase "on the dotted line").
  • Once you sign off on the dotted line, the agreement is legally binding.

Verb

1. cease broadcasting; get off the air; as of radio stations