The difference between "put out" and "put off"...

There are two expressions in American English, two idioms, that have different meanings in American English than they do in British English. They are "put out" and "put off".

In British English, to be "put out" means to be angry.

Example: "I was put out with Ian for running around in the garden."

Another way the British say it is to be "cross".

Example: "I was cross with Ian for running around in the garden."

In American English, "put out" means something VERY DIFFERENT. You'll want to know the difference. "Put out" in American English is a verb--an action word--and it's very vulgar slang used to describe offering sexual favors. It really isn't used even in gatherings of men only. It's very, very vulgar.

In American English, there is another expression: "Put off". To be "put off" is *similar* to the British "put out" but to be "put off" is to be made uncomfortable or somewhat upset but NOT angry.

Example: "I was put off by his constant use of slang."

There is another meaning to "put off"--to "procrastinate". To procrastinate means to avoid doing something you have to do by saying you'll do it later. Someone who procrastinates rarely has everything together when they go to meetings, and is rarely prepared when they need to be. This is because they don't do what they need to do before the meeting.

Another way to say "put off" or "procrastinate" is to "put off for tomorrow."

This leads us to two English proverbs or words of advice (a proverb is a word of advice commonly offered): "Never put off for tomorrow what you can do today."

Okay? Okay. And as always, if you have any questions about this or any other issue in American culture, or about American language, or if you just want to get your free phone consult and book your free no-obligation trial lesson, give me a call at (732) 618-4135. My name is David Berlin. Call today!