Search from various English teachers...
Esteban
What do "up" and "off" mean in the following phrase? "On a live wire right up off the street, you and I should meet" I do not understand the way those prepositions make sense in the line. I would appreciate your help.
Aug 11, 2017 4:41 AM
Answers · 2
"right" means that it's close to the street. "off" means that it's not on the street. "up" means "above"". "up" could mean "in an upward or forward direction" if on the street but "off" tells us that this is not the case so it must mean "above".
August 11, 2017
The up means its above the street, and the off implies it's hanging there and not actually touching the street. You can't say "right up the street" (and have it still make sense), but you could say "right above the street" or "right off the street" (though that may sound like it's next to the street. Hope that made sense and was helpful (*^_^*)
August 11, 2017
Still haven’t found your answers?
Write down your questions and let the native speakers help you!

Don’t miss out on the opportunity to learn a language from the comfort of your own home. Browse our selection of experienced language tutors and enroll in your first lesson now!