Kickoff-Kick-Off | Commonly Confused Words
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Kickoff vs. Kick off

Kickoff

/'kɪkɔf/
The start or beginning of something, especially a game or event

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Kick off

/ˈkɪk ˈɒf/
The phrasal verb "kick off" is more commonly used in informal settings, although it can appear in formal contexts, especially in its literal sense. Originally derived from sports, particularly soccer, where a game starts with a "kick-off," it has since been adopted in broader contexts to mean the start of almost anything, such as meetings, projects, or events. "Kick off" can also imply the beginning of a process or action, often with some excitement or energy. Additionally, it may carry a connotation of something being initiated with a certain expectation of momentum or progress. In informal speech, it's frequently used to describe starting a social activity or event enthusiastically. While generally positive, in some instances, it can also describe the start of something negative, like an argument or a problem. The versatility of "kick off" across various contexts highlights its adaptability in English vernacular.

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Ways to tell them apart:

etymology
  • Kickoff is one word and generally used as a noun.
  • Kickoff often refers to the start of an event, especially in sports.
  • Kick off is two words and generally used as a verb phrase.
  • Kick off refers to beginning an activity or removing something with a kick.
  • Remember: kickoff is when the event starts; kick off is the action to start it.
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