Deactivate: meaning, definitions and examples

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deactivate

[diːˈæktɪveɪt ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Verb}

computer security

To deactivate means to disable a function or feature, especially in the context of computer systems or devices. It is the process of rendering something inoperative or non-functional.

Synonyms

disable, shut down, turn off.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
deactivate	Used when referring to stopping a function or service temporarily or permanently, often in a technical or security context. Deactivate the alarm system before entering the house You should deactivate your account if you no longer use the service
disable	This word is generally used in a technical or digital context to make a function non-operational. It can also have a negative connotation in other contexts when referring to impairing someone's abilities. Disable the notifications if they are bothering you The virus was designed to disable the security system
turn off	Commonly used for everyday electronic devices and appliances, suggesting a simple action of stopping a function temporarily. Turn off the lights when you leave the room Can you turn off the TV? It's too loud
shut down	Often used for turning off systems, machines, or businesses completely, usually for a longer period or permanently. The company had to shut down its operations due to financial problems Please make sure to shut down the computer at the end of the day

Examples of usage

Please deactivate your account before uninstalling the app.
The IT department deactivated the security system for maintenance purposes.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

personal relationships

In the context of personal relationships, to deactivate can mean to withdraw or distance oneself emotionally or physically from someone or something.

Synonyms

disengage, distance, withdraw.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
deactivate	Also generally used in similar contexts to describe the process of stopping a function or process. The IT department will deactivate the old accounts tomorrow. To save battery, you can deactivate unnecessary apps on your device.
withdraw	Used when someone is removing themselves from a situation or ending participation, and can carry a negative connotation of avoidance or retreat. Due to health issues, she had to withdraw from the competition. He decided to withdraw his money from the bank account.
distance	Used when someone or something is intentionally putting space between themselves and a situation or another person, often to avoid emotional involvement. He tried to distance himself from the scandal. She distanced herself from negative influences in her life.
disengage	Used when breaking off a connection, often in an automatic or mechanical sense, but can also be applied to social or emotional detachment. You must disengage the safety lock before operating the machine. She decided to disengage from the conversation to avoid conflict.

Examples of usage

She decided to deactivate from social media to focus on her mental health.
He chose to deactivate from the toxic environment of his workplace.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word comes from 'de-' meaning 'reverse' and 'activate' which means 'to make active'.
It first appeared in the English language in the mid-20th century as technology evolved.
Similar verbs like 'reactivate' show the opposite action, bringing something back to life.

Technology

In computing, deactivation can apply to software features, which can be turned off to save resources.
Deactivating a digital account often means rendering it inactive while the data remains intact.
In cybersecurity, deactivating might involve disabling user privileges to protect systems.

Psychology

The concept of deactivation can also refer to emotional or mental states, such as calming down from a stressful situation.
Mindfulness practices often include techniques to deactivate negative thoughts or stress responses.
During sleep, certain brain areas deactivate, allowing the body to rest and recover.

Pop Culture

In popular movies, characters often deactivate alarms or security systems during heists, adding suspense.
Video games frequently include a deactivation mechanic for traps or threats that players must navigate.
In sci-fi narratives, deactivating robots or AI is a common theme, reflecting human concerns about technology.

Education

In educational settings, 'deactivating' distractions can help students focus better during study sessions.
Programs might be designed to deactivate certain apps on school devices to minimize interruptions.
Learning about how to deactivate negative thoughts can be an important part of mental health education.

Translations

Translations of the word "deactivate" in other languages:

🇵🇹 desativar

🇮🇳 निष्क्रिय करना

🇩🇪 deaktivieren

🇮🇩 nonaktifkan

🇺🇦 деактивувати

🇵🇱 dezaktywować

🇯🇵 無効にする

🇫🇷 désactiver

🇪🇸 desactivar

🇹🇷 devre dışı bırakmak

🇰🇷 비활성화하다

🇸🇦 تعطيل

🇨🇿 deaktivovat

🇸🇰 deaktivovať

🇨🇳 停用

🇸🇮 deaktivirati

🇮🇸 afvirkja

🇰🇿 белсендіруді тоқтату

🇬🇪 დეაქტივაცია

🇦🇿 deaktivasiya etmək

🇲🇽 desactivar

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #32,454 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.

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32451 freelancers
32452 gossiped
32453 wallowed
32454 deactivate
32455 salver
32456 toffee
32457 octogenarian
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