Divest oneself of: meaning, definitions and examples

Typically used in a formal context where someone is getting rid of or stripping away possessions, responsibilities, or affiliations. This phrase carries a sense of intentional and purposeful action.

• She decided to divest herself of her shares in the company.
• After much thought, he divested himself of his leadership responsibilities.

This phrase is used when someone is getting rid of something, typically by discarding, selling, or transferring it. It is a neutral term that can be used in various contexts.

• You should dispose of those old batteries properly.
• He plans to dispose of his old car this weekend.

Commonly used to describe the act of giving up control, rights, or claims, often reluctantly or after significant effort. This term suggests a degree of attachment or difficulty in letting go.

• She reluctantly relinquished control of the project.
• He had to relinquish his claim to the property after the court ruling.

Often used when someone formally renounces a throne, high office, dignity, or function. This word carries a sense of abandoning or stepping down from a position of power, often with negative connotations.

• The king abdicated the throne in favor of his son.
• She abdicated her responsibilities as president, leaving the company in chaos.

Used when someone wants to get rid of an asset or responsibility they no longer want or need, often for ethical or personal reasons.

• She decided to divest herself of her shares in the company to focus on her new business venture
• The organization plans to divest itself of ties to unethical suppliers

Used in financial and business contexts when converting assets into cash, often during the winding down of a business or settling debts.

• The company had to liquidate its assets to pay off creditors during bankruptcy
• He decided to liquidate his investment portfolio to fund his new project

Describes the act of selling a significant amount of assets, often quickly, typically because of falling prices or to raise cash. This term can carry a negative connotation if implying financial distress.

• There was a massive sell-off in the stock market after the unexpected announcement
• Fearing further losses, the firm decided on a sell-off of its non-core assets

Refers to the process of withdrawing investments from a particular area or business sector, often due to strategic or economic reasons.

• In light of recent losses, the company decided to disinvest from the declining market sector
• The investor chose to disinvest due to the region's unstable political climate