Offset: meaning, definitions and examples

This is often used in financial and technical contexts to refer to the counterbalancing of effects or values.

• The new sales will offset the losses from last quarter.
• You can offset your carbon emissions by planting trees.

Commonly used in everyday language, work settings, and scientific contexts to describe a change in position, direction, or focus.

• He works a night shift at the factory.
• There has been a significant shift in public opinion on this matter.

Typically used in scientific, engineering or social contexts to denote a shift from the usual position or the process of moving something from its place.

• The earthquake caused the displacement of several buildings.
• The displacement of residents due to the new construction project must be managed carefully.

General word for a small change made to improve or correct something. Common in everyday situations, technical settings, and self-improvement contexts.

• She made a few adjustments to her schedule to have more free time.
• The camera requires some adjustment to get the perfect focus.

Use 'offset' when you need to counterbalance or compensate for something. Often used in financial contexts or to describe neutralizing effects.

• The company's profits helped to offset their recent losses.
• Planting trees can help offset carbon emissions.

Use 'reserve' when you need to keep something aside for future use or specific people. It often appears in contexts involving booking or saving resources.

• We need to reserve a table for dinner tonight.
• They have enough funds reserved for emergencies.

Use 'allocate' when you need to distribute resources or duties to particular areas, tasks, or people.

• The manager will allocate funds to different departments.
• We need to allocate enough time for this project.

Use 'relocate' when you need to describe moving to a new place, whether it's for living, work, or other purposes.

• The family decided to relocate to a bigger city.
• Our office will relocate to a new building next month.