"live on" vs "live off"

[Ana Laura]

Hi

I would like to know if I can use these phrasal verbs interchangeably.

E.g. 'I am looking for a job since it's nearly impossible to live off/on my husband's salary'.

Thank you for your help.

[Kitosdad]

Good morning Ana. Yes they can be be, but I would suggest that you add "for us", as your sentence sounds parasitical.

'I am looking for a job since it's nearly impossible for us to live off/on my husband's salary'.
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[Alan]

Hi Ana,

As Bill says, both forms can be used but I would add that there is as slight difference. 'Live off' suggests that you are using something (in most cases money) to which you haven't actually contributed in order to survive. 'Live on' suggests you are using something (again usually money) which is yours by right in order to survive.

Take these two sentences:

When people retire from work, they usually live on their pension.

Many people who don't like going to work find ways of living off the state.

Alan
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