revoke - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
revoke Word Meanings
- to take back a decision or statement
- to cancel something that was previously authorized
- to invalidate or nullify
revoke Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
revoke Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/rɪˈvəʊk/
US
/rɪˈvoʊk/
revoke Word Etymology
revoke: re- (back) + vocare (to call). Origin: Latin → Old French → English. Memory image: Imagine a magician who calls back his disappearing act—he 'revokes' the trick to reveal the trickery behind.
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
Revoke is a formal verb meaning to take back or withdraw something that was decided or stated, to cancel an authorization, or to invalidate a rule or document. It is commonly used for decisions (revoke a decision), permissions (revoke a license or permit), statements (revoke a claim or offer), and statuses that were previously in effect. In legal and administrative language, you often see phrases like 'to revoke a policy' or 'to revoke the license'. It is not the same as 'reverse' or 'withdraw' in all contexts, but it shares that sense of undoing. When you learn revoke, remember the idea of reversing an action that someone previously affirmed.
Usage Reminders
- Formal/official use only.
- Always take revoke with a concrete object (a license, a decision, a permit, a claim).
- Prefer passive voice: was revoked / has been revoked.
- Different from withdraw in many contexts; check the exact meaning.
- Noun form: revocation; use in legal documents.
Common Misconceptions
- Not a casual synonym for cancel in everyday talk
- Requires an object; you revoke something, not just 'revoke' alone
- Often used in formal/legal contexts, not colloquial speech
- Confused with 'withdraw' or 'reverse' depending on context
- Passive voice (was/will be revoked) is common and natural
Thinking Differences
English speakers often think of revoke as formal and legal; learners may confuse with withdraw or cancel depending on whether an official permission or a stated claim is involved.
Learning Tips
- Pair revoke with concrete objects (license, decision, permit).
- Notice the passive voice: was revoked / has been revoked.
- Learn related terms: revocation (noun), revoke vs withdraw vs cancel.
- Practice with formal documents to solidify usage.
- Create memory cues: revoke = undo an official action.
- Use a variety of contexts to avoid overgeneralizing.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses 'revoke' correctly?
A.She could not decide which dress to revoke for the party.
B.The chef will revoke the pizza from the oven in a few minutes.
C.The teacher decided to revoke the students' homework assignments on Friday.
D.He hopes to revoke his invitation to the gala.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is most similar to 'revoke'?
A.Cancel
B.Restore
C.Ignore
D.Accept
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is the opposite of 'revoke'?
A.Confirm
B.Reject
C.Deny
D.Disapprove
Step 5: Mastery
Can you think of a real-life context where something may be revoked?
A.A new software version is launched
B.A student is rewarded for good behavior
C.A driver loses their license for repeated violations
D.A book is published for the first time
Related Listening
🔥 Advanced
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