Delete: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when removing digital information, such as files, emails, or text in a document.

• She decided to delete the old emails from her inbox.
• He accidentally deleted the important file from his computer.

Used more generally for taking something away from a place or position and can refer to both physical and digital items; often neutral.

• Please remove your shoes before entering the house.
• She removed the outdated information from the report.

Often used when removing written or drawn content, usually from a surface like paper, a whiteboard, or a chalkboard.

• He erased the notes from the whiteboard after the meeting.
• She used an eraser to remove the pencil marks from the paper.

Used when throwing away something that is no longer wanted or needed; often refers to physical items.

• They decided to discard the broken chair.
• You should discard old papers that you don't need anymore.

This term is commonly used in computing or when referring to removing files, text, or data from electronic devices or software.

• Please delete the unnecessary files to free up space.
• She hit the delete button to remove the unwanted paragraph.

This term is specifically related to typing or text editing, where you need to remove characters to the left of the cursor.

• If you make a mistake, you can use the backspace key to correct it.
• He accidentally pressed backspace and deleted one of the words.