Definitions and Examples of disable, deactivate, inhibit
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
To make something unable to function properly or effectively.
Example
The virus disabled the computer's operating system, making it impossible to access any files.
deactivate
To turn off or stop the operation of a device or system.
Example
The security system was deactivated by entering the correct code.
To prevent or restrain someone or something from doing something.
Example
The fear of failure inhibited her from pursuing her dreams.
Key Differences: disable vs deactivate vs inhibit
- 1Disable implies making something unable to function properly or effectively.
- 2Deactivate implies turning off or stopping the operation of a device or system.
- 3Inhibit implies preventing or restraining someone or something from doing something.
Effective Usage of disable, deactivate, inhibit
- 1Technology: Use disable and deactivate when referring to devices or systems that need to be turned off or stopped.
- 2Psychology: Use inhibit when referring to emotions or behaviors that prevent someone from doing something.
- 3Safety: Use disable and deactivate when referring to safety features that need to be turned off or disabled.
Remember this!
The antonyms of actuates have distinct meanings. Disable means to make something unable to function properly, deactivate means to turn off or stop the operation of a device or system, and inhibit means to prevent or restrain someone or something from doing something. Use these words in different contexts such as technology, psychology, and safety to convey the intended meaning.
