Signing Off: Meaning, Synonyms, & How to Use It

By Team ABJ

Published on:

“Signing off” generally means finishing or completing a task, conversation, or activity. It’s like saying goodbye or ending something you were involved in. For instance, in a conversation or when using technology like a computer or a phone, signing off means you’re done with what you were doing and are now stopping or disconnecting. It’s a way to indicate that you’re finished and are moving on to something else.

Table of contents:

Meaning and definition of ‘signing off’

“Signing off” can have a few different meanings depending on the context:

1. Finishing or Completing: In broadcasting or communication, “signing off” refers to the act of concluding a broadcast or communication session. It’s when someone finishes their presentation, show, or conversation and indicates that they are done. For example, a radio host might say, “This is [Name], signing off for the night,” to indicate the end of their broadcast.

2. Ending Communication: In informal conversations or written exchanges, “signing off” means concluding the conversation or message. It’s often used in emails, chats, or letters as a way to say goodbye or end the communication. For instance, someone might end an email with “Best regards” or “Sincerely” before signing off with their name.

3. Logging Out: In the context of technology and online platforms, “signing off” means logging out or disconnecting from an application, website, or service. When you finish using a computer or an online account, you might “sign off” to ensure that you’re no longer connected or active on that platform.

In essence, “signing off” generally signifies the completion or conclusion of something, whether it’s a communication, broadcast, or an online session.

How to pronounce ‘signing off’?

The pronunciation of “signing off” is generally broken down as follows:

“Signing”: Pronounced as “sahy-ning” (rhymes with “crying” or “dining”).

“Off”: Pronounced as “awf” (rhymes with “golf” or “soft”).

When said together, “signing off” is pronounced as “sahy-ning awf.”

Synonyms and Antonyms of signing off

Here are some synonyms and antonyms for the phrase “signing off”:

Synonyms:

  • Concluding
  • Finishing
  • Ending
  • Closing
  • Logging out
  • Terminating
  • Concluding remarks
  • Farewell
  • Wrapping up

Antonyms:

  • Starting
  • Beginning
  • Initiating
  • Commencing
  • Logging in
  • Opening
  • Launching
  • Starting up
  • Inaugurating

Examples of ‘signing off’ in sentences

Here are some examples of how the term “signing off” can be used in sentences:

  • The radio DJ is signing off for the night, thanking listeners for tuning in to the show.
  • After a long day of work, I’m finally signing off my computer and heading home.
  • The team leader concluded the meeting by signing off with some important action points for everyone to follow.
  • “This is the captain speaking, we’re signing off and preparing for landing,” announced the pilot over the aircraft’s intercom.
  • Please let me know when you’re done with the project, and I’ll sign off on it before it gets submitted.
  • As the evening drew to a close, the event organizer was signing off attendees and expressing gratitude for their participation.
  • He ended his email with “Best regards” before signing off with his name.
  • The CEO addressed the company in a video message, signing off with a motivational message for the upcoming year.
  • Before signing off for the day, make sure to save all your work and shut down the system properly.
  • The live stream host waved goodbye, saying, “Thank you all for joining; I’m signing off now, see you next time!”

What are the related terms and phrases to ‘signing off’?

Related terms and phrases to “signing off” often revolve around the concept of conclusion, completion, or cessation. Here are some related terms and phrases:

1. Wrapping up: This phrase refers to finishing or concluding something. It’s similar to signing off in the sense that it signifies the end or completion of a task, project, or conversation.

2. Closing remarks: These are final comments or statements made at the end of a speech, presentation, or meeting. Similar to signing off, they mark the conclusion or ending of the communication.

3. Logging out: This term specifically refers to the action of disconnecting or ending an online session by logging out of an account or platform. It’s related to signing off in the context of technology or online activities.

4. Farewell: This word expresses good wishes or saying goodbye, often used when parting or leaving. It’s associated with signing off when used to bid adieu at the end of a conversation, broadcast, or written communication.

5. Closing ceremony: This phrase refers to the final part of an event or occasion, signaling its conclusion. It’s akin to signing off as it signifies the ending or culmination of an event.

6. Concluding: This term indicates the action of bringing something to an end or making a final statement. It shares a similar meaning with signing off in marking the end of an activity or communication.

Rhyming words with signing off

Here are some words that rhyme with “signing off”:

  • Cough
  • Doth
  • Toff
  • scoff
  • trough
  • aloft
  • soft
  • doff
  • trough
  • scoff

Rhyming words share similar sounds, typically at the end of the word, creating a rhythm or poetic flow when used in verse or poetry.

How can you use ‘signing off’ in spoken English?

Using “signing off” in spoken English is common and can be applied in various situations to signify the end or conclusion of something. Here are some tips:

1. End of a Conversation: When you’re finishing a conversation, especially in a formal or professional setting, you can use “signing off” to indicate that it’s time to conclude.

Example: “Alright, I’ve given you all the necessary information. I’m signing off now, but feel free to reach out if you have any more questions.”

2. Closing a Broadcast or Presentation: Similar to radio or TV hosts, you can use “signing off” to conclude a presentation, a speech, or any public address.

Example: “Thank you all for being a wonderful audience. I’m signing off with a reminder to stay positive and keep working towards your goals.”

3. Ending an Email or Message: In written communication, “signing off” can be used at the end of an email or message to signal the conclusion.

Example: “I hope this clarifies your query. Looking forward to hearing from you soon. Best regards, [Your Name] signing off.”

4. Logging Out of a Platform or System: In the context of technology, particularly when using apps or online platforms, you can use “signing off” to signify that you’re logging out or finishing your session.

Example: “I’ve completed my tasks for today. I’m signing off from the project management tool now.”

5. Making a Final Statement: Use “signing off” to deliver a closing statement or a farewell message, summarizing the key points or expressing gratitude.

Example: “Before I go, I’d like to thank everyone for their hard work and dedication. Signing off with best wishes for a successful project!”

Tips for using “signing off” in spoken English:

  • Context is Key: Use it when you’re wrapping up something or ending a conversation, speech, or written communication.
  • Keep it Clear and Polite: Use it as a polite way to signify the conclusion without abruptness.
  • Match the Situation: Adapt your tone and formality based on the situation. For instance, it might be more formal in a professional setting but casual in a friendly conversation.

Practice using “signing off” in various situations to become comfortable with its application in spoken English.

More examples

  • Ending a Phone Call: “Okay, I’ve given you all the details. I’ll be signing off now. Talk to you soon!”
  • Closing a Meeting: “Thank you, everyone, for your input. We’re signing off for today. Let’s reconvene next week.”
  • Finishing a Presentation: “That concludes my presentation. I’m signing off with a big thank you to the team for their hard work.”
  • Concluding a Chat: “It’s been great catching up with you. I’m signing off now, but we should do this more often!”
  • Logging out of a Computer or App: “I’ve completed the work. I’m signing off the system for the day.”
  • Finishing an Online Game Session: “Great playing with you all! I’m signing off now, but let’s do this again tomorrow.”
  • Concluding a Broadcast or Livestream: “Thank you, everyone, for joining today’s session. I’m signing off; until next time!”
  • Ending a Video Call: “This was a productive discussion. I’m signing off, but I’ll follow up with the action points we discussed.”
  • Wrapping Up an Interview: “That’s all for today’s interview. I’m signing off with best wishes to all the candidates.”
  • Completing a Work Task: “Finished with the report. I’m signing off for the evening. See you tomorrow!”

Explore more:

Sources: