How Do You Spell OFF BASE?

Pronunciation: [ˈɒf bˈe͡ɪs] (IPA)

The phrase "off base" is commonly used to refer to something that is incorrect or untrue. It is often spelled as two separate words, but can also be written as one hyphenated word, "off-base." The phonetic transcription of this word is /ɔf beɪs/. The "off" is pronounced with the short o sound, while "base" is pronounced with a long a sound. The stress is placed on the second syllable, giving it emphasis. It is important to use correct spelling and pronunciation in communication to avoid confusion and misunderstanding.

Meaning and Definition
Common Misspellings
Etymology
Idioms
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OFF BASE Meaning and Definition

  1. The phrase "off base" is an idiomatic expression primarily used in informal contexts to describe something that is inaccurate, incorrect, or misguided. It is often associated with statements, ideas, or actions that are not based on fact, logic, or truth.

    When someone is "off base," it means their viewpoint, conclusion, or perception is flawed, unreliable, or illogical. It implies a deviation from the accepted or expected standards of correctness or accuracy. It can also reference someone who is not in touch with reality or lacks a true understanding of a particular situation or topic.

    The term "off base" can apply to a wide range of scenarios. For example, if someone makes a claim that is not supported by evidence or misinterprets a situation, their assertion can be described as "off base." Similarly, if someone behaves inappropriately or makes incorrect assumptions about a person or situation, they can be deemed "off base."

    The phrase has origins in the military language, where a military base represents a secured area from where operations are conducted. Being "off base" in a military context meant straying away from the designated area and not adhering to regulations or orders. In a metaphorical sense, "off base" similarly signifies a deviation from conventional norms or proper understanding.

    In summary, "off base" refers to a position, idea, behavior, or judgment that is erroneous, flawed, or inaccurate. It is an idiomatic expression used to denote statements or actions that are misguided, lacking in logical reasoning, or inconsistent with accepted norms.

Common Misspellings for OFF BASE

  • of-base
  • ooff-base
  • off-bbase
  • off-bace
  • Oof base
  • Of bace
  • Oof bace

Etymology of OFF BASE

The phrase "off base" is believed to have originated from baseball in the United States. In baseball, players must touch each base in order to complete a run. If a runner fails to touch a base or leaves it before the ball has been caught, they are considered "off base" and can be caught out.

The use of "off base" in a figurative sense to mean "mistaken" or "incorrect" is thought to have emerged around the early 20th century. It is likely that the term was derived from the literal meaning in baseball and gradually evolved to signify being in error or speaking inaccurately.

Over time, "off base" expanded beyond the realm of sports and became a common idiomatic expression used in everyday language to describe situations where someone is misguided, mistaken, or not in line with the truth.

Idioms with the word OFF BASE

  • be off base When someone is "off base," it means their ideas, opinions, or statements are incorrect, inaccurate, or misguided. It suggests that the person is mistaken or lacking understanding in a particular situation or about a specific topic.
  • off base The idiom "off base" refers to being incorrect, mistaken, or wrong in one's thinking or assumptions. It can also mean being misguided or inaccurate in one's actions or beliefs.