Meaning trap
head off
prevent something
to take action in order to stop something from happening.
Don't mix these meanings
Same phrase, different job.
to take action in order to stop something from happening.
Another meaning of 'head off' is 'leave for a place'; compare the examples to keep the meanings separate.
Hear it in context
Notice where the phrase sounds natural.
The manager tried to head off any complaints by explaining the changes clearly.
To head off health problems, I try to exercise regularly and eat well.
Fix the pattern
One small grammar move makes it sound right.
Not: We need to head off from the crisis.
Say: We need to head off the crisis.
'Head off + problem' directly (= prevent). 'Head off TO' means leave.
Which sounds natural?
Tap the one a native speaker would say.
'Head off' naturally means stop something before it happens. 'Avert a potential conflict' is formal.
Build natural chunks
Words that usually travel with it.
head off + threat
- a crisis
- trouble
- a strike
- objections
Don't confuse it
Related
Other meanings and phrases to compare.
- head off (leave for a place) — Another meaning of 'head off' is 'leave for a place'; compare the examples to keep the meanings separate.