swear off

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Definition

Verb: * To make a solemn promise to oneself or others to completely stop doing, using, or consuming something, typically a habit or indulgence considered harmful or undesirable.

Usage

This verb is used to describe a firm, often public, commitment to give up a specific thing permanently. It implies a strong personal resolve and is often used after a negative experience or for self-improvement. * It is a transitive verb and must be followed by the object being renounced (e.g., swear off alcohol, swear off junk food). * It is commonly used in the simple past tense (swore off) or present perfect tense (have sworn off).

Examples
  • After his health scare, he swore off sugary drinks for good.
  • I'm trying to save money, so I've sworn off buying new clothes this month.
  • She swore off dating apps after a series of bad experiences.
Advanced Usage
  • "to swear someone off (something)": To strongly advise or persuade someone to stop using or doing something.
    • His doctor swore him off red meat due to his high cholesterol.
Variants and Related Words
  • Swear (verb): To make a solemn promise or vow. This is the base verb from which the phrasal verb is derived.
  • Abstain (verb): To refrain deliberately from an action or indulgence. This is a close synonym but is more formal and does not inherently carry the connotation of a public promise.
  • Renounce (verb): To formally declare one's abandonment of a claim, right, or possession. It is stronger and more formal, often used for beliefs or titles.
  • Forgo (verb): To willingly go without or deny oneself something.
Synonyms
  • Give up
  • Quit
  • Forswear
  • Go cold turkey on (informal, often for addictions)
Related Phrasal Verbs
  • Swear by: To have great confidence in the value or effectiveness of something. (This is the opposite meaning of ).
    • She swears by this herbal tea for a sore throat.
  • Swear in: To administer an oath to someone entering an official position.
    • The judge will swear in the new citizens tomorrow.
Related Idioms
  • Turn over a new leaf: To start behaving in a better way, often by changing a habit. This idiom is similar in meaning but broader, focusing on general reform rather than specifically renouncing one thing.
    • He decided to turn over a new leaf and get his life in order.
Verb
  1. promise to abstain from
    • I have sworn off cigarettes altogether