Seal off Meaning in English
expression
Definition
To block entry to or exit from a place, area, or building so that no one can enter or leave, usually for safety or security reasons.
Usage & Nuances
Usually used in formal or official contexts, especially by police, emergency services, or in news reports (e.g., 'The police sealed off the area'). Often collocates with 'area', 'street', 'building', or 'room'. Can be both literal (physical barriers) and figurative (restricting information).
Example Sentences
The police sealed off the street after the accident.
basic
Workers sealed off the broken pipe to stop the leak.
basic
Firefighters quickly sealed off the area around the fire.
basic
They had to seal off the building because of a gas leak.
natural
The military sealed off the border at night to prevent people from crossing.
natural
After the chemical spill, the company had to seal off the entire floor.
natural