The phrase "they were off" can have multiple meanings depending on the context in which it is used. Here are several interpretations:
Incorrectness: It can indicate that something was not correct or was inaccurate. For example, if someone made a guess about a number and was incorrect, one might say, "They were off by ten."
Departure: It can refer to a departure or leaving from a place. For instance, "They were off to the vacation" implies that the people have left for their trip.
Absence or Disturbance: In a more informal context, "they were off" may suggest that people were not present, possibly due to engagement in another activity or being emotionally or mentally unavailable. For instance, if a group of friends is distracted or not focused during a conversation, someone might say, "They were off today."
Disappointment or Lack of Energy: In some contexts, it can imply that someone is not performing at their usual standard or that there is a lack of enthusiasm. For instance, "The team was off in their performance" means they did not play as well as expected.
- Not in Synchronization: It can also indicate a lack of harmony or synchronicity in actions or behavior. For example, "Their timing was off" suggests that individuals were not coordinating well with each other.
To understand the specific meaning, it’s essential to consider the context in which the phrase is used.