What is the antonym of “engage”?
The antonyms of engage are disengage, detach, and distract. These words convey the opposite meaning of engage, which is to involve or participate in something actively.
Brief Definitions of the Antonym(s)
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
To detach or withdraw from something that one was previously involved in.
Example
After realizing that the project was not aligned with his values, he decided to disengage from it.
To separate or remove something from its original position or context.
Example
He had to detach the broken part from the machine before he could fix it.
To divert someone's attention from something by drawing it to something else.
Example
The loud noise outside distracted her from her work, making it hard to concentrate.
How are these antonyms different from each other?
- 1Disengage implies a deliberate decision to withdraw from something that one was previously involved in.
- 2Detach implies a physical separation or removal of something from its original position or context.
- 3Distract implies a diversion of attention from one thing to another, often unintentionally.
Good things to know
- 1Workplace Communication: Use these antonyms to describe different levels of involvement in a project or task.
- 2Relationships: Incorporate these antonyms to describe different levels of emotional attachment or disconnection.
- 3Academic Writing: Utilize these antonyms to contrast different concepts or ideas.
Remember this!
The antonyms of engage have distinct meanings. Disengage implies a deliberate decision to withdraw, detach implies a physical separation, and distract implies a diversion of attention. Use these words to enhance communication in the workplace, relationships, and academic writing.
