Translation guide
The English phrasal verb "come off" has several distinct meanings. This guide organizes them by practical use, from physical detachment to social impressions, with natural Japanese equivalents.
Something becomes detached from a surface or object.
Intransitive verb meaning to come off, be removed, or be detached. Used when something falls off by itself or comes loose.
The button came off.
The paint is coming off the wall.
Intransitive verb meaning to come off, be disconnected, or slip out of place. Often used for parts that are meant to be attached.
Intransitive verb meaning to peel off or come unstuck. Used for stickers, labels, paint, etc.
The sticker came off.
Something is designed to be taken off or detached.
An event or plan happens successfully or has a good result.
To appear or be perceived in a certain way.
Pattern meaning 'to give the impression of ~'. Used when describing how someone comes across.
He comes off as cold.
Means 'to look like ~' or 'to seem ~'. Simpler alternative.
He comes off as confident.
To stop using a drug or medication.
A stain or mark is removed from a surface.
The English phrasal verb 'come off' has no single Japanese equivalent. Always choose the verb based on the specific meaning (detach, succeed, seem, etc.). Using a literal translation like 来る off will not be understood.
取れる is general for things coming off or being removed, often unintentionally. 外れる implies something was attached or fitted and has come loose or disconnected. For parts like chains or lids, 外れる is more precise.
This cover comes off.
The stain came off.