eliminate - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
eliminate Word Meanings
- to remove completely
- to get rid of
- to dismiss as unimportant
eliminate Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
eliminate Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ɪˈlɪmɪneɪt/
US
/ɪˈlɪməˌneɪt/
eliminate Word Etymology
e- = out + liminare = to shut in; from Latin 'eliminare'. Imagine a clear space where all obstacles are removed, allowing for fresh possibilities.
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 forward and move my hand across the desk, pushing aside a pile of papers and pulling out the last stray folder. The surface grows clear and the clutter seems to vanish as I watch. I adjust my plan, turn away from distractions, and decide to eliminate the noise by letting go of the small, irrelevant options. The moment feels like a quiet win, keeping only what matters and letting the rest fall away.
Real Context
Eliminate is a strong verb meaning to remove something completely from a place or situation. It signals finality rather than partial removal, and it often carries a sense of order, rationality, and decisive action. You might eliminate a design flaw, an option from consideration, or a threat from a plan by careful analysis and firm choices. In mathematics and science you see it used to simplify problems; in business and policy writing it marks a thorough pruning of risks or costs. In everyday speech you can say you eliminated the extra clutter, expenses, or an unnecessary step after reviewing the evidence.
Usage Reminders
- Use eliminate for complete removal
- Prefer eliminate in formal or technical contexts
- Pair with adjectives like completely, totally, or entirely
- Differentiate from remove when you mean temporary or partial action
- In math or science, it often means simplifying or pruning elements
- Practice with data cleanup and risk assessment scenarios
Common Misconceptions
- Eliminate means to delete a few items, not everything.
- Confusing with remove when you only mean to set aside.
- Thinking it applies to people in casual talk.
- Using it for temporary fixes like turning off a feature.
- Treating it as a synonym of erase in everyday speech.
Thinking Differences
Eliminate conveys final, deliberate removal; learners often overextend it to casual edits or replace remove in everyday talk.
Learning Tips
- Think of eliminate as final removal in need-to-remove situations
- Reserve eliminate for non-temporary changes like pruning or closing options
- Use with nouns that you intend to remove entirely
- Contrast with remove when the action is partial or reversible
- Practice in data cleaning, policy drafting, and risk assessment
- Check nuance in formal writing vs casual speech
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of the word 'eliminate'?
A.Remove
B.Add
C.Expand
D.Double
Step 2: Usage
How is the word 'eliminate' used in a sentence?
A.She tried to eliminate all distractions while studying.
B.He added more distractions to eliminate boredom.
C.They expanded their efforts to eliminate inefficiencies.
D.I doubled my workload to eliminate free time.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which of the following words is similar to 'eliminate'?
A.Eradicate
B.Increase
C.Multiply
D.Reduce
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'eliminate'?
A.Destroy
B.Crush
C.Retain
D.Divide
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life context would someone try to eliminate a problem?
A.Completing a difficult puzzle
B.Fixing a leaking pipe
C.Getting rid of unwanted pests
D.Organizing a messy room
Want to practice more words?
Download LexiTalk app for personalized learning experience
Download App