throw off

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Explanation of "Throw Off"

Definition: The phrase "throw off" is a verb phrase that can have a few different meanings. Generally, it means to get rid of something or to cause something to change direction.

Examples:

1. Getting Rid of Something:

   • After the workout, she decided to throw off her sweaty clothes.
   • He managed to throw off the feeling of anxiety before his presentation.

2. Confusing Someone:

   • The magician's trick was so good that it threw off the audience.
   • I was thrown off by his sudden change in attitude.

Advanced Usage:

• In a more figurative sense, "throw off" can be used to describe someone who changes their public image or persona. For example:
  • After years in the corporate world, she wanted to throw off the image of being a strict manager and show her fun side.

Word Variants:

• Shed: This is a synonym that can be used similarly. For example, "He shed his old habits."
• Get Rid of: Another phrase that conveys a similar meaning.

Different Meanings:

• Physical: You can "throw off" a blanket when you feel hot.
• Emotional: You might "throw off" feelings of sadness by talking to a friend.
• Mislead: If someone gives you wrong directions, they may "throw you off" your path.

Synonyms:

• Get rid of
• Discard
• Release
• Confuse
• Mislead

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

• "Throw off course": This means to change someone's direction or plans unexpectedly.
  • The sudden rainstorm threw off our plans for a picnic.

Conclusion:

"Throw off" is a versatile phrase that can describe both physical actions and emotional states. It's useful in everyday conversations and can help express a range of feelings and situations.

Academic

Verb

1. get rid of
   • I couldn't shake the car that was following me
2. get rid of
   • he shed his image as a pushy boss
   • shed your clothes

Synonyms

• shake
• shake off
• escape from
• shed
• cast
• cast off
• throw
• throw away
• drop