Word
dispose
Meanings
to get rid of something, especially by throwing it away or handling it safely and properly (often: dispose of)
to deal with a problem, task, or matter so it is finished
to arrange things in a particular way or position
Definition
To dispose of something is to get rid of it, especially by throwing it away or dealing with it properly.
To dispose means to remove something that is no longer wanted, often by throwing it away or arranging for it to be handled correctly. It is frequently used with “of” (dispose of). In more formal contexts, it can also mean to arrange things in a particular order or to make someone inclined toward a certain attitude.
Examples
- I disposed of the old batteries at a designated collection point rather than tossing them in the bin.
- You should dispose of confidential drafts securely once the final version has been approved.
- She disposed of the complaint efficiently by clarifying the policy and documenting the outcome.
- They disposed of the remaining materials after the exhibition and left the hall spotless.
Common mistake
Learners often forget the preposition and say “dispose something” instead of “dispose of something.”
More at C1 level
- ubiquitous Present, appearing, or found everywhere at the same time.
- xenophobia Xenophobia is a strong dislike or fear of people from other countries or cultures.
- genocide Genocide is the deliberate killing of a large number of people from a particular group in order to …
- conundrum A conundrum is a confusing and difficult problem to solve.
- pretentious Trying to seem more important, intelligent, or cultured than you really are.
More verbs
- analyze To examine something carefully in order to understand it or explain it.
- scrutinize To scrutinize something is to examine it very carefully and in detail.
- affect To affect something is to influence it or cause it to change.
- allude To allude means to mention or suggest something indirectly without saying it clearly.
- elude To elude someone or something is to avoid being caught, understood, or remembered.