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