What does 'fall off' in this context mean?

[Ludmila S.]

English Language Tests, Intermediate level

ESL/EFL Test #176 "Phrasal idioms with the verb 'fall'", question 5

The northeastern state of Assam could ......... the Indian map soon.

(a) fall behind
(b) fall behind in
(c) fall back on
(d) fall off

English Language Tests, Intermediate level

ESL/EFL Test #176 "Phrasal idioms with the verb 'fall'", answer 5

The northeastern state of Assam could fall off the Indian map soon.

Correct answer: (d) fall off

Your answer was: ?
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Could you explain what 'fall off' means in this context?

Ludmila

[Kitosdad]

It means, " Cease to exist " to all intents and purposes. It would not be shown on the new maps.
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Keep it simple ... Keep it interesting.

[Daemon99]

May I ask whatever gave whoever framed this question the idea that Assam could fall off the Indian map soon? Or is it just another casual question aimed at teaching students phrasal verbs? It doesn't appear so, though.
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Non-native speaker of English
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