offset
AWF-set
/ˈɒf.set/
To balance, counteract, or compensate for something by applying an equal and opposite force or value.
Implies neutralizing a negative impact (such as carbon emissions) by creating an equivalent positive action elsewhere.
The story behind the word. Originating in Old English from 'of' (away) and 'settan' (to place), the term initially described a shoot branching off a plant stem. In printing and accounting during the 18th century, it evolved to mean balancing one ledger entry against another.
Word relationships
- counterbalance: Counterbalance emphasizes physical or structural equilibrium, whereas offset often refers to financial or environmental compensation.
- compensate: Compensate often involves financial payment for loss, whereas offset focuses on neutralizing an impact.
- aggravate: Aggravate means making a problem worse rather than balancing it out.
Commonly confused with
- upset: Upset means to disturb or overturn, while offset means to balance out.
Word family
- offsetting (noun): The act of counterbalancing an effect or cost.
Collocations
- offset emissions
- carbon offset
- offset costs
- partially offset
Idioms & expressions
- offset the damage
Example sentences
- "A company can offset its carbon emissions by planting native trees in degraded forests." Environmental finance
- "Higher prices were offset by an increase in overall consumer demand during the holiday quarter." Economics literature
Memory hook
Think of placing a weight OFF to the side to SET the balance scale straight. Off-set: placing balance on the scale.
When not to use
Do not use when simply deleting or erasing something; offset means balancing two opposing forces.
Fun facts
- The term 'offset printing' comes from ink being transferred ('set off') from a plate to a rubber blanket before hitting paper.
Related words
Explore more words
compensate, balance, trade-off, reciprocal, mitigate, mitigation
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