B1 1K

Offset

UK //ˈɒfsɛt// US //ˈɔːfʃɛt// Pronunciation

Definition

To counteract or balance the effect of something.

Listen to definition

In simple words: To balance or counteract something.

Examples

• The company aims to offset its carbon emissions.
• Her savings will offset the increase in costs.
• You can offset losses with gains in other areas.

Usage notes

Use 'offset' when talking about reducing or balancing effects. It's neutral and suitable for most contexts like finance or environmental discussions.

Grammar pattern

offset + object

Memory hint

Think of 'off set' as moving something away to balance it.

Collocations

• offset costs
• offset emissions
• offset effect
• offset impact
• offset risks

Synonyms

• counteract
• balance
• neutralize
• counter
• counterbalance

Antonyms

• increase
• raise
• amplify

Common mistakes

• Confusing 'offset' with 'set off' which has a different meaning.
• Using 'offsets' as a verb without an object.
• Mixing up 'offset' with 'outweigh' in contexts of comparing impacts.