Spin-off: meaning, definitions and examples

Typically used in business to describe a new company created from a larger parent company. It often has a positive connotation, implying growth or creativity.

• The tech giant announced a spin-off of its gaming division to create new opportunities.
• The spin-off of the division allowed it to focus on its core strengths.

Primarily used in a business context to describe the process of selling off or disposing of a part of a company. It often involves financial or strategic reasons and sometimes has a more neutral or negative connotation.

• The company announced a divestiture of its underperforming assets.
• Due to regulatory issues, the corporation had to proceed with a divestiture of some of its subsidiaries.

Generally used to describe the act of making two or more parts or people become no longer connected. In business, it can refer to the process of splitting a company into parts, often with a neutral or practical tone.

• The separation of the two companies was necessary for strategic reasons.
• After the separation, each business unit could operate more efficiently.

Used to refer to something that has developed from something larger, often implying a natural growth or development. It can be used in both business and non-business contexts.

• The popular TV series is an offshoot of a well-known movie.
• The new branch is an offshoot of the main company, focusing on innovation.

It is used to describe a new product, company, or series that comes from an existing one. Often used in business, entertainment, and media contexts.

• The popular TV show had a spin-off that focused on one of its beloved characters.
• The company launched a spin-off to explore new markets.

Typically used in a more formal context to describe something that is developed from something else, especially if it lacks originality. It can have a somewhat negative connotation.

• The artist's work was criticized for being derivative and uninspired.
• This financial instrument is a derivative whose value is based on underlying assets.

Used to refer to something that logically develops or branches off from something else. Common in both literal and figurative senses, such as plants or organizations.

• The new research institute is an offshoot of the university.
• This plant is an offshoot of the main stem.

This specifically refers to a work that continues the story or develops the theme of an earlier one, often used in literature, films, and video games.

• Fans are eagerly awaiting the sequel to the best-selling novel.
• The movie's sequel will be released next summer.