Depart: meaning, definitions and examples

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depart

 

[dɪˈpɑːt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

airport

To leave, especially to start a journey.

Synonyms

go, leave, set out.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
depart

This is often used in formal or official situations, such as public announcements or schedules. It means to leave a place, especially to start a journey.

  • The train will depart from platform 5 at 6 PM.
  • The flight is scheduled to depart at 10 AM.
leave

This can be used in both formal and informal contexts. It means to go away from a place or a person, and can also imply permanence or a longer duration.

  • I leave for work at 8 AM every day.
  • She had to leave the meeting early.
go

This word is very general and informal. It can be used in everyday conversation to mean leaving a place or moving from one place to another.

  • I have to go now, it's getting late.
  • Let's go to the park this afternoon.
set out

This phrase is typically used when starting a journey, especially one that is planned and might be long or challenging.

  • They set out on their road trip early in the morning.
  • He set out on a journey to discover new lands.

Examples of usage

  • He departed for Paris early in the morning.
  • The flight is scheduled to depart at 3:00 PM.
Context #2 | Noun

formal

The act of leaving a place, especially for a journey.

Synonyms

exit, going away, leaving.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
depart

Formal setting, usually for travel or official departure.

  • The train will depart at 6 PM
  • The CEO will depart after the meeting
leaving

Everyday setting, generally referring to any kind of departure.

  • She is leaving the party now
  • They are leaving for the airport soon
exit

Neutral or instructional setting, often referring to leaving a location or scene.

  • Please exit through the back door
  • She made a quick exit from the room
going away

Casual setting, often referring to leaving for a vacation or a temporary period.

  • He is going away for the weekend
  • They're going away on a trip next month

Examples of usage

  • His sudden departure surprised everyone.
  • We will miss her upon her departure.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • 'Depart' comes from the Old French word 'departir,' meaning to divide or separate.
  • The root of the word is derived from Latin 'departire,' which is a combination of 'de-' (down from) and 'partire' (to divide).
  • The word has evolved over centuries to primarily mean leaving rather than dividing.

Cultural Significance

  • In many cultures, the act of departing is significant, often associated with new beginnings or journeys.
  • Departures are commonly celebrated or mourned in various traditions, reflecting the emotional weight of leaving.
  • Airports and train stations around the world use the term 'depart' prominently, marking it as a key part of travel culture.

Literature

  • In literature, the theme of departure often represents a character's growth or change, symbolizing moments of transition.
  • Numerous poems and stories express the bittersweet feeling associated with departing, highlighting nostalgia and hope.
  • Famous works like Shakespeare's plays frequently explore the emotional depths of parting between lovers or friends.

Psychology

  • Departures can trigger feelings of anxiety and sadness, as they often signify loss of connection.
  • Psychologists suggest that people often form attachments to places and individuals, making departures emotionally challenging.
  • The process of adjusting after a departure is an important area of study in understanding human relationships and coping mechanisms.

Travel

  • In travel contexts, 'depart' helps denote scheduling and timing, marking the moments people must prepare for their trips.
  • Airline etiquette often includes announcements reminding passengers to gather belongings before they depart.
  • Travel enthusiasts often plan departures meticulously, considering factors like time of day and weather.

Translations

Translations of the word "depart" in other languages:

🇵🇹 partir

🇮🇳 प्रस्थान करना (prasthaan karna)

🇩🇪 abfahren

🇮🇩 berangkat

🇺🇦 відправлятися

🇵🇱 odjeżdżać

🇯🇵 出発する (shuppatsu suru)

🇫🇷 partir

🇪🇸 partir

🇹🇷 ayrılmak

🇰🇷 떠나다 (tteonada)

🇸🇦 يغادر (yughadir)

🇨🇿 odjet

🇸🇰 odísť

🇨🇳 离开 (líkāi)

🇸🇮 oditi

🇮🇸 fara

🇰🇿 кету

🇬🇪 წასვლა (tsasvla)

🇦🇿 getmək

🇲🇽 partir

Word Frequency Rank

At #6,862 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.