Dismissed: meaning, definitions and examples

Used in a formal or neutral context, often in legal or academic settings, to indicate that someone has been removed from a position or job. It does not necessarily carry a negative connotation.

• The court dismissed the case due to lack of evidence.
• He was dismissed from his post for not following company policies.

This is a more informal and sometimes British way of saying 'fired,' often with a slightly harsher tone. It generally implies that the dismissal was sudden and due to significant wrongdoing or incompetence.

• He was sacked for stealing from the company.
• After the poor quarterly results, several executives were sacked.

Commonly used in informal or everyday language, and often has a negative connotation, suggesting that the person was removed from their job usually for poor performance or misconduct.

• She was fired for repeatedly being late to work.
• After the incident, the manager decided to fire him.

Frequently used in formal or business contexts, and it carries a neutral to slightly negative connotation. It often implies that the employment was ended officially and might include legal or procedural implications.

• Her employment was terminated following the staff review.
• The contract was terminated after both parties failed to reach an agreement.

Used when referring to someone being let go from a job or when a case in court is not accepted.

• She was dismissed from her job due to budget cuts.
• The judge dismissed the case due to lack of evidence.

Often used when someone decides not to continue with a plan, course, or legal charge.

• She dropped the course because it was too difficult.
• The charges were dropped due to insufficient evidence.

Used when something is shut down or no longer open, such as a store or an event.

• The store closed at 8 PM.
• The case was closed after the investigation ended.

Used when something is not accepted, often implying a negative or critical connotation.

• His proposal was rejected by the committee.
• She felt hurt when her application was rejected.

Used when formally rejecting an idea, person, or job position. Often associated with official settings or authority.

• The manager dismissed the employee after repeated warnings.
• The judge dismissed the case due to lack of evidence.

General term for not paying attention to someone or something. Can be neutral but sometimes perceived as rude.

• He ignored her calls because he was busy.
• The student ignored the teacher's instructions.

Neutral word typically used for ignoring rules, advice, or concerns. Can imply a deliberate choice to not follow or care.

• She disregarded the warning signs and continued driving.
• The company disregarded the environmental regulations.

Informal and slightly dismissive way of showing a lack of interest or concern. It implies a casual or indifferent attitude.

• He brushed off her comments and continued with his work.
• The coach brushed off the loss, saying they would do better next time.