What is the antonym of “establish”?
The antonyms of establish are abolish, dismantle, and disestablish. The antonyms convey the opposite meaning of creating or setting up something. They imply the act of ending, destroying, or removing something that was previously established.
Brief Definitions of the Antonym(s)
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
To officially end or put an end to something, such as a law, system, or institution.
Example
The government decided to abolish the death penalty after years of public debate.
To take apart or break down something, such as a structure, machine, or organization.
Example
The workers were hired to dismantle the old factory and sell its parts for scrap metal.
To remove official recognition or support from something, such as a religion or church.
Example
The government decided to disestablish the Church of England and separate it from the state.
How are these antonyms different from each other?
- 1Abolish implies the complete and official ending of something, such as a law or system.
- 2Dismantle implies taking apart or breaking down something, such as a structure or organization.
- 3Disestablish implies removing official recognition or support from something, such as a religion or church.
Good things to know
- 1Politics: Use these antonyms to describe changes in laws, systems, or institutions.
- 2Business: Use these antonyms to describe the process of taking apart or breaking down a company or organization.
- 3History: Use these antonyms to describe the end of an era or the removal of official recognition or support from a religion or church.
Remember this!
The antonyms of establish convey the opposite meaning of creating or setting up something. Abolish implies the complete ending of something, dismantle implies taking apart or breaking down something, and disestablish implies removing official recognition or support from something. These antonyms can be used in politics, business, and history to describe changes, processes, and events.