B2verbmoneyenvironment
US/ˌɔːfˈset/
UK/ˌɒfˈset/
to balance or cancel the effect of something, so that the result is smaller or less bad
In context
Higher sales in Asia helped offset the losses in Europe last year.
The company plants trees to offset the carbon it produces from flights.
Cheap fuel prices were offset by a sharp rise in food costs.
Words that go with offset
verb + noun
- offset the costSolar panels can offset the cost of electricity over time.
- offset lossesGains in other areas offset losses in the retail business.
- offset the effectsExercise can partly offset the effects of a poor diet.
- offset carbon emissionsMany airlines let you offset carbon emissions when you book.
adverb + verb
- partly offsetHigher wages were partly offset by lower taxes.
Common mistakes
Incorrect:
The gain offsets with the loss.Correct: The gain offsets the loss.