"to peter out" vs "to peter off"

[Mirko]

English Language Tests, Intermediate level

ESL/EFL Test #567 "English Slang Idioms (309)", question 3

"My business makes most of its money in the late spring and summer. The money starts to peter ......... as soon as the weather gets colder; usually, about mid-October," Fred said to Bill.

(a) off
(b) out
(c) in
(d) away

English Language Tests, Intermediate level

ESL/EFL Test #567 "English Slang Idioms (309)", answer 3

"My business makes most of its money in the late spring and summer. The money starts to peter out as soon as the weather gets colder; usually, about mid-October," Fred said to Bill.

Correct answer: (b) out
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OFF??

Mirko

[Mister Micawber]

No, 'out'. 'Peter out' = end weakly, gradually.
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Native English teacher at Mister Micawber's