switch-off

[swich-awf, -of]

noun

1. the act or process of switching off a power supply, light source, appliance, etc.

switch off

verb

1. to cause (a device) to stop operating by or as if by moving a switch, knob, or lever; turn off

2. informal,  to cease to interest or be interested; make or become bored, alienated, etc

Word History and Origins

Origin of switch off¹

Noun use of verb phrase switch off

Idioms and Phrases

Stop paying attention, lose interest, as in Whenever he starts in on economics, I switch off automatically. This metaphoric expression transfers turning off a light switch or similar device to diverting one's attention. [c. 1860] Also see switch on.

Example Sentences

"I don't think so," he replied when asked about the switch-off at 24-5.

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"Every start and switch-off of the engine counts as one cycle," he explained.

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The switch-off will begin on a smaller scale, and affected homes and businesses will be contacted by suppliers "well ahead of time", the energy department said.

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Fuel poverty campaigners said the switch-off process had been "doomed to failure" after it became clear that the 30 June deadline was "simply unachievable".

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He called for a plan "that sets out how the gradual switch-off will take place, including which regions will be affected and when".

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Related Words

• achieve 
• break up 
• cease 
• close 
• complete 
• conclude 
• culminate 
• delay 
• drop 
• expire 
• finish 
• give up 
• halt 
• play out 
• quit 
• resolve 
• settle 
• stop 
• terminate 
• wind up