“Off the hook” is a common idiomatic phrase used frequently today in everyday conversations and writing. Here you will find the meaning of this phrase and a brief discussion about its origin. You will also find some examples of how to use the phrase “off the hook” properly in conversations/statements, in addition to some other common ways to say “off the hook” in different ways while still conveying the same meaning.
Off The Hook
Off The Hook Meaning
The meaning of the idiomatic phrase “off the hook” means that you are no longer have any type of obligation to another person in a given situation.
Origin of this idiom
The origin of the phrase “off the hook” comes from the sport of fishing. A fish that is on the hook is thought to be out of options; his fate is sealed. However, a fish that is off the hook has its freedom and is free to do what it wants. It is not obligated or committed to anything. The term has been around nearly as long as the sport of fishing has and over the years this phrase has been applied to situations other than the act of fishing.
“Off The Hook” Examples
Examples in Statements
A statement made in the high school newspaper by the captain of the football team.
- “We were all blaming the quarterback for the loss of the homecoming game, but we have to let him off the hook. He was not feeling well that day. We were lucky he was even on the field.”
A statement made by a celebrity during an interview for a movie that critics said was terrible.
- “It wasn’t terrible because of me. I am off the hook. Blame it all on my co-star.”
Examples in Conversations
A conversation between a mother and her son.
- Mother: You were out past curfew last night. You are punished for a week.
- Son: Mom, it was not my fault. The car got a flat and I had to change it on my way home.
- Mother: Fine, I will let you off the hook this time. Next time you won’t be so lucky.
A conversation between a teacher and student.
- Teacher: Tabitha, where is your homework?
- Student: I was unable to do it.
- Teacher: Then I have no choice but to give you a 0 on the assignment.
- Student: No, Mr. Smith, you don’t understand. I was unable to do it because my grandfather died yesterday afternoon and I was busy all evening.
- Teacher: Oh, I am sorry to hear that Tabitha. I will let you off the hook and allow you to make up the assignment.
More useful examples:
- I wasn’t prepared to let her off the hook that easily.
- He’d decided to make Sandra wait before letting her off the hook.
- Why, she wondered, when she had effectively let him off the hook?
Other Ways to Say “Off The Hook”
Like most idiomatic phrases, there are many other ways to say “off the hook” and still convey the same meaning. Some of the other ways you can say “off the hook” include you are no longer obligated for (something), you are no longer in trouble for (something) or you are no longer committed to complete (something).
Useful list of “Off The Hook” synonyms:
- Free
- Escaped
- Released
- Leave
- Get away with it
Off The Hook | Picture
fries