English · Phrasal verb Candidate

scare off

Proposed by a contributor, not yet supported by evidence.

Sense 1

Meaning · English

To cause (something) to flee by frightening it.

Where it’s used: Used American English

A quick growl scared off the mouse.

Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30)

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30 via kaikki.org).

Meaning · English

To deter.

Sources & notes

Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30 via kaikki.org).

What does “scare off” mean?

To cause (something) to flee by frightening it.

Is “scare off” formal or informal?

No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.

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