hit off: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1Informal
Quick answer
What does “hit off” mean?
To imitate or mimic someone successfully and humorously.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
To imitate or mimic someone successfully and humorously.
To represent or capture the essence of someone or something, often in a brief, skillful manner; to achieve a good rapport or understanding with someone quickly.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
The 'imitate' sense is predominantly British. In American English, 'hit it off' (meaning to get along well) is common, but 'hit off' alone is rarely used.
Connotations
British: clever, amusing, light-hearted parody. American: (for 'hit it off') positive social connection.
Frequency
Low frequency in both dialects, but the British 'imitate' sense is a recognized idiom. 'Hit it off' is more common in AmE.
Grammar
How to Use “hit off” in a Sentence
[Subject] hit off [Object (person/character/style)]Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “hit off” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The comedian can hit off the Prime Minister perfectly.
- She hit off his pompous style to a tee.
American English
- (Rare) He really hit off that celebrity's mannerisms.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rarely used.
Academic
Rarely used.
Everyday
Used in conversational contexts discussing comedy, impressions, or describing someone's skillful mimicry.
Technical
Not used.
Vocabulary
Synonyms of “hit off”
Vocabulary
Antonyms of “hit off”
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “hit off”
- Using 'hit off' to mean 'begin' (e.g., *Let's hit off the meeting).
- Confusing 'hit off' with 'hit it off'.
- Using it transitively without an object.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, the imitation sense is chiefly British. Americans use 'hit it off' (to get along well).
No, it is a transitive phrasal verb. You must specify what or who is being imitated (e.g., hit off *his style*).
Both can mean to imitate. 'Take off' is more common and broader. 'Hit off' emphasises precise, telling accuracy in the imitation.
It is informal and idiomatic, used more in speech than in formal writing.
To imitate or mimic someone successfully and humorously.
Hit off: in British English it is pronounced /ˌhɪt ˈɒf/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˌhɪt ˈɔːf/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “hit it off (with someone)”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a comedian HITTING the punchline of an impression, taking it OFF the stage.
Conceptual Metaphor
ACCURACY IS A DIRECT BLOW (hitting the target of resemblance).
Practice
Quiz
What is the primary meaning of 'hit off' in British English?