dismissed - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
dismissed Word Meanings
- to refuse to consider something
- to send someone away
- to dismiss from employment
dismissed Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
dismissed Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/dɪsˈmɪs/
US
/dɪsˈmɪs/
dismissed Word Etymology
dis- = apart + miss = send; Latin → Old French → English. Imagine a boss waving goodbye to an employee while saying 'you're dismissed,' emphasizing the separation.
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 lean in, my hand moves to the stack of papers and I push one aside with a tired sigh. I shift my attention, change the pace of the talk, and set that worry aside. A thin thread of pressure rises; I hold the moment steady for a beat, then let it go and turn toward the next task. Later at work, a decision lands on the desk: you’re dismissed. The manager nods toward the door, the door closes, and the room settles back into its ordinary rhythm.
Real Context
Dismiss is a versatile verb with three main senses. First, to refuse to consider something or to treat it as unworthy of attention, often with the sense of rejecting a suggestion or idea. Second, to send someone away from a place, especially a meeting or event, or to tell them to leave. Third, to terminate someone’s employment, i. e., dismiss them from a job. In everyday speech you might say, 'The committee dismissed his proposal,' or 'She was dismissed from the team,' or 'He was dismissed for misconduct.' It can carry different tones: casual, formal, or legal. Remember phrasal patterns such as dismiss with, dismiss from, or dismiss as.
Usage Reminders
- - Remember that dismiss can mean not considering a proposal, or firing someone.
- - Distinguish dismiss from ignore; dismiss implies judgment or formal action.
- - Learn key patterns: dismiss a proposal, be dismissed from work, dismiss someone.
- - The noun form is dismissal and can change tone (legal vs casual).
- - Be aware of phrasal completeness: you can be dismissed for misconduct.
Common Misconceptions
- Dismiss = ignore completely; not always true, it can be a firm rejection or formal firing.
- Only means firing from a job; it also means rejecting ideas or plans.
- Confusing with 'disperse' or 'dismissal' as casual synonyms.
- Assuming 'dismiss' always has a negative emotional tone; it can be neutral in formal contexts.
- Using 'dismiss' with the wrong preposition (e. g., dismiss from vs dismiss of).
Thinking Differences
In English, you can explicitly separate the sense of rejecting an idea (dismiss a proposal) from firing someone (be dismissed from work). Learners often think dismiss always means 'ignore', or confuse it with 'disperse' or 'dispense'.
Learning Tips
- Learn the three core senses and the common collocations.
- Practice with both formal and informal contexts.
- Remember the noun 'dismissal' and related phrases.
- Differentiate from 'ignore' and 'disperse'.
- Watch prepositions: dismiss from, dismiss as, dismiss a proposal.
- Use native-source examples to hear natural tone.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What does the word 'dismissed' mean?
A.To celebrate an event
B.To hold someone's attention
C.To terminate someone's employment
D.To invite someone over
Step 2: Usage
Which of the following sentences uses 'dismissed' correctly?
A.The teacher dismissed the class for lunch.
B.He dismissed the idea of going to the party.
C.She dismissed the beautiful painting for being too bright.
D.The coach dismissed the players after the practice was over.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'dismissed'?
A.Rejected
B.Accepted
C.Celebrated
D.Informed
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'dismissed'?
A.Accepted
B.Ignored
C.Forgotten
D.Abandoned
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context where someone might feel dismissed?
A.An employee was denied promotion after their contributions were overlooked.
B.A child felt ignored when their opinion was not considered during the meeting.
C.During the presentation, the speaker made an impactful point that resonated with everyone.
D.A team leader celebrated the success of their project with everyone.
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