oust - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
oust Word Meanings
- to remove someone from a position
- to force out
- to expel or drive away
oust Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
oust Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/aʊst/
US
/aʊst/
oust Word Etymology
out- = out + -st = to place; Origin: Old French 'oster' → Middle English 'ousten' → 'oust'. Imagine a king removing a rival from the throne, indicating power dynamics and authority.
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
To oust someone is to remove them from a position of power or responsibility, usually through a formal decision or sustained pressure rather than a voluntary departure. It emphasizes authority, legitimacy, and conflict, and is often used for leaders, directors, or rivals who challenge the status quo. Oust can carry a sense of speed or abruptness, contrasted with resign or retire. In usage, you might say a board ousted the CEO, a ruler was ousted by a coup, or a coach was ousted after poor results. The word implies a deliberate act by those who hold power over the person affected and signal a clear political or organizational shift.
Usage Reminders
- Remember: transitive verb; always requires an object.
- Be careful not to use with voluntary departures.
- Often occurs in formal or newsy contexts.
- Be aware of the passive form be ousted.
- Pair with be/was/were ousted to describe results.
- Consider synonyms like depose, remove, or eject for nuance.
Common Misconceptions
- Oust equals fire; not all removals are as dramatic as an oust.
- Oust cannot describe someone who leaves on their own.
- Confusing oust with 'depose' but 'depose' can imply legalities in some contexts.
- Misusing oust for casual hiring/firing in non-political settings.
- For passive construction, you say be ousted, not oust in passive without be.
Thinking Differences
For English learners, oust conveys a deliberate removal by those in power, often in formal or newsworthy contexts. It implies conflict and legitimacy rather than a voluntary exit, and contrasts with resign or retire. Learners sometimes confuse it with fire or eject in casual use.
Learning Tips
- Learn common collocations: oust from office, oust a rival, be ousted.
- Differentiate oust from depose, remove, expel by noting formality.
- Practice active voice: The committee ousted the leader.
- Use in passive: be ousted to describe the result.
- Watch for political or corporate contexts; more formal than casual firing.
- Pair with nouns like board, governor, president to reinforce meaning.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of 'oust'?
A.Open
B.Expel
C.Join
D.Build
Step 2: Usage
Which of the following sentences uses 'oust' correctly?
A.She joined the club last week.
B.He built a new house for his family.
C.The employees voted to oust the CEO.
D.They opened a new branch in the city.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is a synonym of 'oust'?
A.Accept
B.Eject
C.Admit
D.Retain
Step 4: Opposite Words
Which word is an antonym of 'oust'?
A.Depose
B.Remove
C.Expel
D.Retain
Step 5: Mastery
In what scenario would someone be likely to 'oust' another person?
A.Helping a friend
B.Taking control of a company
C.Winning a competition
D.Cooking a meal
Want to practice more words?
Download LexiTalk app for personalized learning experience
Download App