1. To take care of something: This is the most common meaning. It means to deal with something, usually a responsibility or task, so that it is completed or no longer needs attention.
* Example: "I've covered off all the outstanding invoices, so you can relax."
2. To protect something from risk or harm: This meaning is often used in business and finance.
* Example: "We need to cover off our liabilities in case of a downturn in the market."
3. To ensure something is included or accounted for: This is similar to the first meaning, but it emphasizes ensuring something is not overlooked.
* Example: "Make sure you cover off all the essential points in your presentation."
4. To finish or complete a task: This meaning is often used informally.
* Example: "I'm going to cover off this last email and then I'm done for the day."
5. To go through something thoroughly: This meaning is used to emphasize that something is being examined in detail.
* Example: "We need to cover off the contract carefully before signing it."
The meaning of "cover off" will usually be clear from the context in which it is used.
It's worth noting that "cover off" is a slightly informal phrase, so it's best to use it in casual conversations or with people you know well. In more formal settings, you might want to use a more formal alternative like "address" or "take care of".