face off
The term "face off" originates from sports like ice hockey and lacrosse, but it is widely used to describe any direct confrontation or competition.
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Definition
B2Sports
(technical)To start play by having two opposing players attempt to gain control of the puck or ball.
Example
- The game begins with a face off at center ice.
B2General
(idiomatic)To confront or engage in a direct conflict or competition.
Example
- The two candidates will face off in the final debate.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "face off":
play offhead offsquare offstand offhead to headbox offlook offdo offknock offshoot outfront offbang offbeat offtouch offface to face