Translation guide
The English word "off" has many meanings and functions. This guide covers the most common uses for learners, from physical removal and deactivation to starting a journey and being absent.
Expressing that something is no longer attached, in contact, or in its usual place.
Used when something comes off by itself or becomes detached. For intentional removal, use 取る (とる).
The button came off.
The sticker won't come off easily.
To take off or remove something that is attached, like a lid, a ring, or a part.
Please take the lid off.
I took my ring off.
Specifically for taking off clothing or footwear.
Please take your shoes off.
I took my coat off.
For something falling off a surface or from a height.
A book fell off the shelf.
Describing machines, lights, or devices that are not turned on or active.
To turn off a light, TV, or electronic device. Also used for extinguishing fire.
Turn off the TV.
I forgot to turn off the light.
Literally 'cut', used for turning off switches, power, or gas. Often used with スイッチ (switch).
Please turn off the switch.
Loanword from English, often used in compounds or technical contexts, like 'off mode'.
Indicating movement away, departure, or being absent.
Being absent from work or school, taking time off.
An event or plan that is no longer taking place.
Food that has gone bad or is no longer fresh.
The beginning of a race or trip, often used in set phrases.
English 'off' is highly polysemous. Avoid using a single Japanese word for all cases. Pay attention to the specific meaning: removal, deactivation, absence, etc.
turn off the light
take off shoes
取れる (intransitive) is for things coming off by themselves. 外す (transitive) is for removing attached objects. 脱ぐ is only for clothes and shoes.
The button came off.
Please turn off your phone.
Formal request using お切りください
I have a day off tomorrow.
The handle came off.
ガスを切った？
Did you turn off the gas?
Please turn the power off.
彼は町を離れた。
He went off from the town.
He went off in a hurry.
She went off shopping.
I'm taking next week off.
He is off on leave.
会議はキャンセルです。
The meeting is off.
魚が傷みやすい。
Fish goes off easily.
選手がスタートしました！
They're off!
Take the lid off.
Take off a jacket.