depart - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
depart Word Meanings
- to leave a place
- to deviate from a plan
- to pass away (die)
depart Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
depart Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/dɪˈpɑːt/
US
/dɪˈpɑrt/
depart Word Etymology
de- = from, part = share/split. Latin 'departire' → Old French 'departir' → English. Imagine a train leaving a station, parts of it splitting off as it departs towards different destinations.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I push the door open and step out into the cool air. I move away from the quiet room, and the street fills my view, like a fresh route. My feet keep a steady pace as I adjust to the sounds and crowds around me. If my plan shifts, I keep going, letting the moment depart from the old path and lead me somewhere new.
Real Context
Depart is a versatile English verb with three core senses. First, it means to leave a place or set off on a journey, especially with vehicles and scheduled times (the train departs at nine). Second, it means to deviate from a plan or course, as when a project veers away from its original design. Third, in a formal or literary register it can mean to pass away, i. e., to die. The etymology traces de- = from and part = share, via Latin departire and Old French departir. Learners often confuse depart from with depart to and mix up die with depart in casual contexts.
Usage Reminders
- Use depart for formal travel contexts.
- Use depart from to emphasize deviation from a plan or route.
- Prefer die or pass away for death in everyday English.
- Noun form is departure.
- Depart for indicates movement toward a destination; depart from indicates leaving from a place or deviating from a plan.
Common Misconceptions
- Depart always means die; it is not common in everyday usage for death.
- Depart is just a synonym of leave in all contexts.
- Depart from is interchangeable with depart to.
- Depart should be used with any travel-related verb instead of leave.
- The noun departure is rarely used or understood.
Thinking Differences
Think of depart as a spectrum: travel-ready 'leave/exit' is common, but 'depart from a plan' signals deviation; death sense is rare and formal. Prepositions matter: depart from X vs depart for Y; noun is departure.
Learning Tips
- Learn the three core senses and when each fits.
- Practise depart from vs depart for with examples.
- Remember the noun form 'departure'.
- Be cautious with the death sense; prefer die or pass away in everyday English.
- Compare with leave to spot subtlety in tone and formality.
- Use authentic travel contexts to reinforce the travel sense.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is 'depart' used correctly?
A.The train departed from the station.
B.She arrived at the airport early.
C.He decided to stay at the party.
D.They all slept in tents.
Step 3: Similar Words
What is a synonym for 'depart'?
A.Gather
B.Join
C.Quit
D.Remain
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is an antonym for 'depart'?
A.Leave
B.Exit
C.Return
D.Start
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life situation would you use the word 'depart'?
A.Going grocery shopping
B.Starting a new job
C.Cleaning the house
D.Leaving for a vacation
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
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