The phrasal verb "see off" is more commonly used in informal contexts, though it can appear in formal speech, especially in narrative or descriptive settings. It is frequently used to describe the action of accompanying someone to the point of departure, such as a train station or airport, to bid them farewell as they leave. The context often involves a sense of personal connection or duty, such as when family members or friends see someone off on a journey. This phrasal verb can also be used in a more figurative sense to denote successfully dealing with or overcoming a challenge or opponent, often used within competitive contexts like sports or business. Its usage in the latter sense is slightly more formal but still not typically found in overly formal documents or speeches. Overall, "see off" carries an element of finality and closure, whether in farewells or in overcoming obstacles.
B1
PreIntermediate
1. To accompany someone to say goodbye before they leave on a journey.
We all went to the airport to see Kate off on her flight to Australia.
He was seen off at the train station by his family and friends.
2. To deal with or defeat someone or something, often an adversary.
The home team managed to see off their opponents with a 3-1 victory.
She saw off her business rivals with a series of strategic moves.