Shaving off Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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shaving off

[ˈʃeɪvɪŋ ɒf ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Phrasal verb}

daily routine

To remove hair from the body using a razor or shaver.

Synonyms

groom, shave, trim.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
shaving off	Used typically when removing hair completely or partially with a razor or another sharp tool. It can also apply to removing a thin layer from a surface. He is shaving off his beard for a cleaner look. The carpenter is shaving off the rough edges of the wood.
shave	Used when removing hair from the face or other parts of the body with a razor, often as part of daily personal care. He needs to shave his beard every morning. I forgot to shave my legs before going to the beach.
trim	Used to describe cutting off small parts to make something look neat, usually referring to hair or grass. He needs to trim his hair to keep it looking tidy. Don't forget to trim the edges of the lawn.
groom	This term is often used in the context of personal care and maintaining appearance. It can also refer to caring for an animal's coat. He takes time to groom himself before going to work. The owner grooms his dog every week.

Examples of usage

I need to spend some time shaving off my beard before the meeting.
She was shaving off her leg hair when the phone rang.

^{Context #2 | Phrasal verb}

reducing

To reduce the amount of something, usually by cutting or eliminating it.

Synonyms

cut down, reduce, trim.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
shaving off	This phrase can be used when referring to removing a small, thin layer from something, often related to woodworking or personal grooming. He is shaving off some wood from the tabletop to make it smoother She is shaving off a few inches of her hair
reduce	This word is often used in more formal or general contexts to mean making something less in size, amount, or intensity. The company aims to reduce its carbon emissions by 50% You should reduce the amount of salt in your diet
cut down	This phrase is commonly used when talking about reducing the amount or size of something, such as expenses, food intake, or resources. We need to cut down on our expenses to save money He needs to cut down on sugar to improve his health
trim	This term is typically used when talking about making small adjustments or cuts to improve appearance or efficiency, often related to hair, plants, or budgets. She decided to trim her bangs for a new look He needs to trim the bushes in the garden

Examples of usage

The company is shaving off unnecessary expenses to improve profitability.
I have been shaving off a few minutes from my running time every week.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Cultural Practices

Shaving off hair has been a rite of passage in various cultures, symbolizing new beginnings or the shedding of the old.
In many countries, specific shaving rituals accompany coming-of-age ceremonies, emphasizing its cultural significance.
Barbershops, where shaving is often a skilled craft, serve as social hubs in communities, especially among men.

Psychology

Shaving off hair often symbolizes a fresh start or radical change, influencing how individuals perceive themselves.
Research indicates that a clean-shaven appearance is often associated with professionalism and trustworthiness.
Behaviorally, the act of shaving can reflect self-care routines, enhancing one's mood and self-esteem.

Science

Studies have shown that shaving can reduce the risk of certain skin infections by keeping the area clean and free of excess hair.
In the realm of dermatology, shaving techniques vary in purpose—from cosmetic use to the treatment of skin conditions.
Recent advancements have led to the development of electric razors that minimize skin irritation while effectively shaving off hair.

Art and Craft

In woodworking, 'shaving off' refers to the technique used to refine surfaces and achieve desired shapes with precision.
The phrase is also used in art to describe the slow removal of material to create detailed sculptures or designs.
Carpenters and artisans often use specialized tools to 'shave off' wood, blending function with artistic expression.

Origin of 'shaving off'

Main points about word origin

The phrase 'shaving off' originates from the verb 'shave,' which dates back to Middle English, meaning to cut off with a sharp tool.
The use of 'off' in phrases like this typically implies removal or reduction in quantity, enhancing its meaning.
Historically, shaving tools have evolved from simple knives to specialized razors used for different purposes.

The term 'shaving off' originated from the combination of the words 'shaving' and 'off', indicating the action of removing or reducing something. The practice of shaving off hair has been a common grooming ritual throughout history, while the metaphorical use of the term to refer to reducing or eliminating something has become popular in modern language.