Environment / C1

OFS-et/ˈɒfset/

To offset is to counterbalance an effect: offset the cost, carbon offset. Cancel out and make up for are everyday. Set off is start a trip or a bomb — different. As a noun, an offset is the balancing item. Do not claim a biscuit tin offsets a rent rise.

Meaning

To counterbalance an effect with an opposite one.

Examples

• “A small bursary did not offset the rent rise near campus.”
• “A small bursary did not offset the rent rise beside campus.”
• “Make up for is everyday; offset is often money, carbon, or a formal balance. Set off at dawn is leave. A token gift is not an offset.”

Good to know

Balance out; cancel an effect. Everyday: make up for. Noun: an offset (e.g. carbon). Mix-up: set off (depart / trigger). Not a token biscuit.

Topics

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