What does the phrasal verb “dispense with” mean?

What are the definitions of “dispense with”?

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

• 1. To skip or eliminate.

  I think we all know each other, so we can dispense with the formalities.

What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “dispense with”?

The most common meaning of the phrasal verb dispense with is to skip or eliminate something, especially when it is considered unnecessary or unimportant. It is often used when talking about formalities, rules, or procedures that can be avoided in a particular situation.

What are the different verb forms of “dispense with”?

Root Verb	dispense with
Third Person Singular Present	dispenses with
Present Participle	dispensing with
Simple Past	dispensed with
Past Participle	dispensed with

Example

We can dispense with the introductions since we all know each other.

Example

She dispenses with the usual pleasantries when she's in a hurry.

Example

They are dispensing with the dress code for the casual event.

Example

He dispensed with the formalities and got straight to the point.

Example

The usual procedures were dispensed with in this emergency situation.

What kind of phrasal verb is “dispense with”?

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Notes from a Native English Speaker

What is a transitive and intransitive verb?
- A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.)
- An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)

Transitive verb

“dispense with” is a transitive phrasal verb because it requires a direct object to complete its meaning. The direct object specifies what is being removed, obtained, or eliminated.

Example

We can dispense with the formalities.

Example

She dispensed with the usual pleasantries.

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Notes from a Native English Speaker

What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb?
- A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle.
- An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.

Inseparable

“dispense with” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.

Example

We can dispense with the formalities.

Example

She dispensed with the usual pleasantries.

What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “dispense with”?

Dispense with someone's services

To end a professional relationship with someone, such as firing or dismissing them.

Example

The company decided to dispense with his services after discovering his dishonesty.

Dispense with the idea

To abandon or give up on a particular idea or plan.

Example

After several failed attempts, they dispensed with the idea of opening a new branch.

Dispense with formalities

To skip or avoid the usual formal procedures or social customs.

Example

Since we're all friends here, let's dispense with the formalities and just enjoy the party.

Good things to know

Does “dispense with” have an informal or formal tone?

Dispense with is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both formal and informal contexts. It is appropriate for use in everyday conversations, as well as in more formal settings, such as business meetings or academic discussions.

What are synonyms of antonyms to the phrasal verb “dispense with”?

Synonyms

• skip
• omit
• eliminate
• bypass
• ignore
• avoid
• abandon
• forgo
• do away with

Antonyms

• include
• maintain
• preserve
• retain
• uphold
• continue
• embrace
• adhere to