offsetting
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈɒfˌsɛtɪŋ/
KK: /ˈɔfˌsɛtɪŋ/
noun
Definition
The action or process of balancing or counteracting something, often by making adjustments or compensations.
Example
The company is investing in offsetting its carbon emissions to help the environment.
Conversation
I just learned about offsetting in my economics class.
Oh really? What does it mean exactly?
It refers to an amount that balances out another, like in financial terms.
That sounds interesting! It must be useful for budgeting.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
counterbalance
compensation
equivalence
Antonyms
detriment
loss
penalty
verb
Definition
To counterbalance or compensate for something, often to reduce its negative effects.
Example
The company is offsetting its carbon emissions by investing in renewable energy projects.
Tense Forms
Past: offset
Past Participle: offset
Conversation
I heard you’ve been offsetting your carbon footprint lately.
Yeah, I started using public transport more often.
That’s a great idea! It really helps in offsetting emissions.
Root Explanation
Offsetting → It is formed from "off-" (meaning away) and "set" (from Old English "settan", meaning to place or put). The word "offsetting" refers to the act of placing something away or counterbalancing another thing.
Memory Tip
Think of placing something 'away' ('off-') to balance or counteract something else — that's what offsetting means.
Visually Confused Words
setting
outsetting
nonsetting