Buy off Meaning in English
expression
Definition
To pay someone, usually with money, to stop them from doing something or to make them act in your favor, often in a dishonest or illegal way.
Usage & Nuances
Informal, often negative or about unethical/illegal behavior. Commonly used for bribing officials or people in authority. Do not confuse with 'buy out' (to purchase an entire share of something). 'Buy off' usually refers to preventing action by payment.
Example Sentences
The company tried to buy off the inspector.
basic
He offered money to buy off the guards.
basic
They tried to buy off the witnesses before the trial.
basic
You can’t just buy off every problem that comes your way.
natural
Politicians sometimes try to buy off journalists to get good press.
natural
He thinks he can buy off his critics, but it won’t work.
natural