expel - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
expel Word Meanings
- to make someone leave a place
- to force something out
- to remove from a group or organization
expel Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
expel Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ɪkˈspɛl/
US
/ɪkˈspɛl/
expel Word Etymology
ex- = out + pelere = to drive. Originates from Latin, passed through Old French to English. Imagine a person forcefully tossing out a piece of trash, representing removal completely; the action of expelling something that's unwanted.
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
Expel means to force someone or something to leave a place or group, and it also covers the act of forcing something out of a container or system. It is often used in formal settings, such as schools, clubs, or governments, to describe removal by authority: a student being expelled, a member expelled from a committee, or air being expelled from a balloon. The etymology traces to ex- (out) and pelere (to drive). In everyday speech you may contrast expel with evict, remove, or kick out, but expel emphasizes an authoritative, often complete removal rather than a casual departure. Be mindful of the passive voice: was expelled, not was ejected.
Usage Reminders
- Use expel for formal removal by an authority.
- Do not use it for casual 'kick out' in everyday settings.
- Compare with evict in housing contexts and with remove for non-authoritative actions.
- Typically followed by from a place or from a group.
- Passive form is be expelled.
Common Misconceptions
- Expel always means physical eviction from a place, not just removing someone from a group.
- Expel and evict are interchangeable in all contexts.
- Expel only applies to people, not objects or gases.
- Be expelled is the only correct passive form; you cannot say was expelled from a club and be expelled from a country in the same way.
- Expel can be used casually to mean ‘remove briefly’.
Thinking Differences
Explain to an English speaker: expel conveys a formal, authoritative removal; learners often confuse it with evict in housing or with remove in casual settings, so pick the context carefully.
Learning Tips
- Pair expel with from to show what is being removed.
- Contrast with evict when talking about housing or tenancy.
- Practice both active and passive forms: the committee expelled him vs he was expelled.
- Use formal contexts: schools, clubs, governments, and organizations.
- Watch for subtle differences from remove and ban: expel implies a definitive removal by authority.
- Develop comfort with nouns that follow expel (from a place, from a group).
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What does the word 'expel' mean?
A.Admit
B.Accept
C.Dismiss
D.Include
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses the word 'expel' correctly?
A.The teacher expel the answer to the math problem.
B.The bakery decided to expel a new flavor of bread.
C.The school decided to expel the top student for his excellent grades.
D.The company expel a new employee for their hard work.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'expel'?
A.Exclude
B.Invite
C.Encourage
D.Praise
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'expel'?
A.Condemn
B.Reject
C.Accept
D.Punish
Step 5: Mastery
Can you give an example of a real-life scenario involving expulsion?
A.A student being rewarded for good behavior
B.A tenant being evicted for not paying rent
C.An employee being promoted for their dedication
D.A customer receiving a discount for shopping often
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