Definition of feed off

feed offphrasal verb

ăn hết

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The phrase "feed off" has its origins in the literal sense of the words, "feed" meaning to consume or obtain nourishment, and "off" meaning from something. In its most basic meaning, "feed off" describes the action of drawing sustenance from another source, often a living one. This phrase has been used in an idiomatic sense for centuries, as it has metaphorical applications in various circumstances. For instance, in parasitology, "feed off" describes a parasitic organism that extracts nutrients from its host. The phrase has also been used figuratively to describe one's reliance on another's resources, actions, or ideas without contributing positively to the outcome. For instance, someone who "feeds off" another's intelligence or knowledge may use it for their own benefit without acknowledgment or reciprocation. In summary, the phrase "feed off" derives from its literal meaning and has evolved to describe a range of metaphorical concepts, ranging from biological parasitism to parasitic actions conducted by humans to obtain resources from others.

namespace

to eat something

ăn cái gì đó

Example:
  • Butterflies feed on the flowers of garden plants.

    Bướm ăn hoa của cây trong vườn.

  • The seals feed mainly on fish and squid.

    Hải cẩu chủ yếu ăn cá và mực.

to become stronger because of something else

trở nên mạnh mẽ hơn vì điều gì khác

Example:
  • Racism feeds on fear.

    Chủ nghĩa phân biệt chủng tộc nảy sinh từ nỗi sợ hãi.

  • He feeds off the work and reputation of others.

    Anh ta sống dựa vào công sức và danh tiếng của người khác.