Disable: meaning, definitions and examples
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disable
[ dɪsˈeɪbl ]
software
To deactivate a function or feature of a software program.
Synonyms
deactivate, shut down, turn off.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
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disable |
When you want to make something non-functional temporarily, often used in a technical or physical context.
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deactivate |
When you want to turn off a feature, service or account, usually in a digital or software context.
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turn off |
When switching off a device, appliance, or electrical equipment, often used in daily, casual contexts.
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shut down |
When turning off a machine, device, or a large system completely, often for maintenance or at the end of its use.
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Examples of usage
- You can disable the automatic updates in the settings menu.
- Make sure to disable the firewall before installing the new software.
physical
To render someone or something unable to move or function.
Synonyms
cripple, immobilize, incapacitate.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
---|---|
disable |
Typically used to refer to making something non-functional or preventing it from operating normally. Often used in technical, medical, or administrative contexts.
|
cripple |
Has a strong negative connotation and is often used to describe causing severe physical injury or damage that leads to a significant loss of functionality. It is considered insensitive when referring to people.
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incapacitate |
Indicates causing someone or something to be unable to function properly, often due to injury or damage. Can be used in both physical and metaphorical senses.
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immobilize |
Used in contexts where preventing movement is the primary focus, often in medical or tactical situations.
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Examples of usage
- The injury disabled him from playing sports for months.
- The virus disabled the computer completely.
disability
A physical or mental condition that limits a person's movements, senses, or activities.
Synonyms
challenge, handicap, impairment.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
---|---|
disable |
Used when referring to the action of making something or someone unable to function or work. Often found in a technical or physical context.
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impairment |
Used in a medical or technical context to describe a loss or abnormality of function or structure. It can refer to any tissue, organ, or system of the body.
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handicap |
Used, often in a negative context, to describe a physical or mental condition that limits someone's abilities. It can also refer to an imposed disadvantage in a competition to level the playing field.
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challenge |
Used to describe a situation that is difficult and requires effort to overcome; can also mean a call to engage in a contest or competition.
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Examples of usage
- She has a disability that requires the use of a wheelchair.
- The organization provides support for people with disabilities.
Etymology
Word Frequency Rank
With rank #19,929, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.
- ...
- 19926 metaphorically
- 19927 collated
- 19928 sonar
- 19929 disable
- 19930 cataloguing
- 19931 roost
- 19932 haggard
- ...