Drain off Meaning in English
expression
Definition
To remove a liquid slowly from something, usually by letting it flow away. It is often used for getting rid of water or other liquids from containers, food, land, or pipes.
Usage & Nuances
"Drain off" is chiefly used for liquids slowly leaving something, often in passive structures ("the water drained off"). Common with cooking ('drain off the oil'), plumbing, or engineering. Not for fast flows ("pour out") or in abstract senses. Do not confuse with 'dry off' (to become dry, not remove liquid).
Example Sentences
After boiling the vegetables, drain off the water before serving.
basic
The rainwater will drain off the roof into the gutter.
basic
Let the dirty water drain off before cleaning the tank.
basic
We need to drain off some excess oil after frying the chicken.
natural
If you don't drain off the water, the rice will be too wet.
natural
The excess rain needs somewhere to drain off or the field will flood.
natural