beat off

1. Repulse, drive away by blows, as in We tried to beat off the flying ants swarming about us. Originating in the mid-1600s in a military context, this term was being used for other activities by the mid-1700s.

Example Sentences

The Austrian team beat off competition from reigning European champions Budapest who were on track to win, but ended up in fourth place.

From BBC

Offloads that went to ground or straight into Argentine hands were one serious issue, as were passes just a beat off the runner.

From BBC

Romola Garai beat off stiff competition - including from herself - to take home the Olivier for Best Supporting Actress for her role in The Years.

From BBC

The deal for 12 three-engine AW-101 helicopters was signed in February 2010 after AgustaWestland beat off competition from US and Russian rivals.

From BBC

The event in Newcastle also saw Bashy claim best album and best hip-hop act after a 15-year break from music and Darkoo beat off competition from Raye and Jorja Smith to be recognised as best female act.

From BBC

Related Words

• chide 
• deny 
• dismiss 
• disregard 
• fend off www.thesaurus.com
• ignore 
• oppose 
• rebuke 
• refuse 
• reject 
• repudiate 
• resist 
• snub 
• spurn 
• turn down