Question 1

What does "buy off" mean?

Accepted Answer

To pay someone to stop opposing you, drop a complaint, or keep silent, especially through dishonest means.

Question 2

How do you use "buy off" in a sentence?

Accepted Answer

The company tried to buy off the journalist who had discovered their illegal dumping.

Question 3

Is "buy off" formal or informal?

Accepted Answer

"buy off" is informal — used mainly in casual conversation. Often used in political, legal, or criminal contexts. Carries a strong negative connotation of corruption. Common in journalism and crime fiction.

buy off

Expressions associées

Plus avec "off"