disburse - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
disburse Word Meanings
- to pay out money
- to distribute funds
- to spend resources
disburse Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
disburse Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/dɪsˈbɜːs/
US
/dɪsˈbɜrs/
disburse Word Etymology
disburse is composed of 'dis-' (a prefix meaning 'do the opposite') and 'burse' (related to 'purse'). Originally from Latin 'disburso', it traveled through Old French before becoming part of English. Imagine someone pulling money out of a purse to hand it out - that's the essence of disbursement.
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
Disburse means to pay out money from a fund or account, often in a formal or official setting. It is the act of distributing funds to recipients, projects, or departments, not earning money yourself. In business and government, you disburse funds after spending approval or a grant award, and the noun form is disbursement. It contrasts with words like spend or disperse; disburse emphasizes intent and record-keeping, while disperse can mean scattering. Common collocations include disburse funds, disbursement schedule, and to disburse payments to vendors or beneficiaries.
Usage Reminders
- Disburse is used for paying out funds from a fund, grant, or account.
- It describes paying to recipients, not spending in general.
- It is transitive: you disburse funds to someone or a project.
- The noun form is disbursement; use it for schedules or records.
- Avoid confusing disburse with disperse or reimburse.
Common Misconceptions
- Disburse means spending money casually, like everyday purchases.
- Disburse and disperse are interchangeable in financial contexts.
- Disburse is only used for cash payments outside of organizations.
- Disburse is the same as reimburse or repay money you owe.
- Disbursement refers to earning money rather than distributing it.
Thinking Differences
For English learners, disburse is formal and fund-centered; many students confuse it with spend or disperse. Emphasize that the focus is on paying out funds with records, not simply using money.
Learning Tips
- Pair disburse with funds, grants, or payments.
- Remember its noun: disbursement.
- Use in formal writing or reports.
- Distinguish from disperse (scatter) and reimburse (repay).
- Practice with verbs: disburse funds to X, disburse payments to Y.
- Check a disbursement schedule to talk about timing.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What does the word 'disburse' mean?
A.To receive funds
B.To collect donations
C.To distribute money
D.To save money
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses 'disburse' correctly?
A.We will disburse funds to cover the project expenses.
B.She plans to disburse her savings for a new car.
C.He will disburse his thoughts on the topic during the meeting.
D.They decided to disburse a holiday meal for everyone.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'disburse'?
A.Receive
B.Allocate
C.Save
D.Retain
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'disburse'?
A.Spend
B.Collect
C.Distribute
D.Withdraw
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context where money is given out?
A.The organization plans to distribute grants to local businesses.
B.After reviewing the expenses, the board will disburse funds to approved projects.
C.The community holds a fundraiser to collect donations.
D.He decided to save money for his trip next year.
Want to practice more words?
Download LexiTalk app for personalized learning experience
Download App