deplete - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
deplete Word Meanings
- to use up resources fully
- to reduce in quantity or strength
- to exhaust the contents of
deplete Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
deplete Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/dɪˈpliːt/
US
/dɪˈplit/
deplete Word Etymology
de- = down, plere = to fill. Latin → Old French → English. Imagine a glass being filled up with water, then gradually tipping it over until it’s fully emptied.
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 InputReal Context
Deplete means to use up resources completely, to reduce in quantity or strength, or to exhaust the contents of something. It often describes gradual consumption of tangible assets like fuel, water, or food, as well as intangible things such as energy, patience, or goodwill. The word tends to appear in formal, technical, or policy contexts, though it is also common in everyday speech when talking about running something dry. It generally implies that reserves are running low and may require replenishment or intervention. The transitive structure is deplete something, and be depleted is the passive form. Etymology traces de- (down) plus plere (to fill).
Usage Reminders
- Use deplete with resources, energy, or reserves; avoid using with people. Be careful with be depleted vs. deplete someone’s patience. Prefer formal or technical contexts for deplete; more common verb for drains is drain. The noun form is depletion. Remember the prefix de- hints downward removal.
Common Misconceptions
- Confusing deplete with drain when talking about water or energy, but drain can be used more casually
- Thinking deplete only refers to physical resources, ignores intangible things like patience
- Using deplete to describe people directly sounds odd; use deplete resources, deplete energy instead
- Misplacing deplete with replace when discussing replenishment
- Assuming deplete always has a negative tone; it can be neutral in some technical contexts
Thinking Differences
English speakers often reserve deplete for formal or technical contexts and distinguish it from drain by emphasizing complete use of reserves rather than casual leakage.
Learning Tips
- Practice with both physical and abstract nouns: deplete a resource, deplete patience
- Compare with drain and exhaust to feel nuance
- Use be depleted for passive situations
- Familiarize common collocations: deplete resources, deplete energy
- Note adjective depleted in phrases like 'be depleted'
- Read technical/academic examples to see formal usage
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
Which choice best defines the word 'deplete'?
A.To protect from harm or damage
B.To build or increase resources
C.To reduce or use up the supply of something
D.To praise someone for an achievement
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses the word 'deplete' correctly?
A.Her kind words deplete the room with warmth and appreciation
B.They plan to deplete the new software to all employees next week
C.The prolonged drought will deplete the town's groundwater supplies
D.This snack deplete at room temperature; keep it refrigerated
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar in meaning to 'deplete'?
A.exhaust
B.replenish
C.expand
D.protect
Step 4: Opposite Words
Which word is the opposite of 'deplete'?
A.drain
B.consume
C.replenish
D.exhaust
Step 5: Mastery
Which scenario is the best place to use the word 'deplete' aloud?
A.She fixed the laptop and restored all missing files
B.The company's sales doubled after the successful product launch
C.After a long camping trip without resupplying, the group's food and water supplies were nearly gone
D.Students gathered to celebrate the end of the semester with a party
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
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