Dismember: meaning, definitions and examples

Typically used in a dramatic or serious context to describe the act of cutting or tearing apart limbs or parts from a body. Can also be used metaphorically for breaking up an organization or system.

• In the horror movie, the monster would dismember its victims.
• The scandal threatened to dismember the political party.

Best used when talking about taking down or apart large structures, systems, or organizations in a more comprehensive way, often implying a permanent state.

• They decided to dismantle the old factory to make way for new development.
• The government plans to dismantle outdated regulations to improve efficiency.

Used when talking about taking something apart into its individual pieces, especially used for machines or objects that can be reassembled.

• He had to disassemble the car engine to figure out what was wrong with it.
• The kids disassembled the Lego house they built.

Used in a serious or formal context to describe the act of cutting off completely or putting an end to something, often a relationship or connection.

• He decided to sever ties with the company after the scandal.
• The accident nearly severed his arm.

Used when talking about separating limbs or parts of a body, usually with strong negative connotations. It can also be used metaphorically for violent division.

• The killer dismembered the victim's body to hide the evidence.
• The multinational corporation was dismembered into smaller entities after the scandal.

Commonly used to describe the end of a relationship, group, or gathering. It's less formal and can be used in casual contexts.

• They decided to break up after five years of dating.
• The band had to break up due to creative differences.

Used when talking about separating something into parts, whether it's physical objects, concepts, or groups. It can be neutral or carry a negative tone depending on the context.

• Let's divide the cake into eight equal slices.
• Political issues can often divide a nation.

Used to indicate the action of moving or being moved apart. It can be physical, emotional, or abstract. It's often considered neutral.

• Please separate the whites from the colors before doing laundry.
• The teacher had to separate the two students because they were disruptive.