dispense - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
dispense Word Meanings
- to distribute or supply something
- to exempt someone from a rule
- to manage or deal with a situation
dispense Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
dispense Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/dɪsˈpɛns/
US
/dɪsˈpɛns/
dispense Word Etymology
dis- = apart, pense = to weigh. From Latin 'dispensare', through Old French to English. Imagine someone distributing candies by weighing them out individually before handing them out, ensuring everyone gets their fair share.
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
Dispense is a versatile verb with three related senses. First, to dispense something is to distribute or supply it to people, as a pharmacist dispenses medications or a charity dispenses food to clients. Second, to dispense with something is to do away with it or skip it, often formalities or rules; you might dispense with a ceremony or a requirement. Third, to dispense with someone from a duty or obligation is to exempt them, or excuse them from that duty. The word comes from Latin dis- (apart) and pensare (to weigh), via Old French, carrying the sense of weighing out portions. Learners should note that dispense is not simply to place or give; it implies an act of allocation or omission within a system.
Usage Reminders
- Use dispense to mean giving out or supplying something to people.
- Dispense with means to skip or omit something, especially formalities.
- Do not confuse with disperse, which means to scatter.
- Common collocations: dispense medications, dispense relief, dispense advice.
- In passive voice: be dispensed to someone or be dispensed with a rule.
Common Misconceptions
- Dispense is only about giving out physical items.
- Dispense with always means to exclude someone.
- Dispense and disperse have the same meaning.
- You can always use dispense with any rule.
- Dispense cannot take a passive construction.
Thinking Differences
English tends to separate the idea of giving out (distribute) from the idea of omitting something (dispense with); phrasal verb usage is important: be careful with 'dispense with' vs 'disperse'.
Learning Tips
- Learn the three core senses separately: distribute, omit, exempt.
- Practice phrases with common collocations: dispense medications, dispense with ceremony.
- Compare with similar verbs: distribute, disperse, exempt.
- Remember the phrasal verb 'dispense with' requires a following noun or gerund.
- Use passive forms: be dispensed to, be dispensed with.
- Keep a mini dictionary of prepositions that pair with each sense.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'dispense'?
A.Fly
B.Take
C.Give
D.Sleep
Step 2: Usage
In which sentence is 'dispense' used correctly?
A.She took all the anger.
B.He dispensed a lot of joy.
C.They flew to the party.
D.I dispensed a nap.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym of 'dispense'?
A.Withhold
B.Receive
C.Distribute
D.Consume
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'dispense'?
A.Withhold
B.Keep
C.Store
D.Possess
Step 5: Mastery
How is the word 'dispense' used in a pharmacy setting?
A.To prescribe medication
B.To count pills
C.To give out medicine
D.To refill prescriptions
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