Eliminate Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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eliminate

[ษชหˆlษชmษชneษชt ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

reduce

To completely remove or get rid of something. It can refer to eliminating a problem, a threat, or a competitor.

Synonyms

erase, exterminate, remove.

Examples of usage

  • By implementing new safety measures, we can eliminate the risk of accidents.
  • The company decided to eliminate the outdated products from their inventory.
  • We must eliminate any obstacles that stand in the way of progress.
Context #2 | Verb

competition

To defeat or surpass someone or something in a competition or contest.

Synonyms

defeat, outdo, surpass.

Examples of usage

  • The team was able to eliminate their opponents and advance to the finals.
  • She trained hard to eliminate the reigning champion and claim the title.
Context #3 | Noun

sports

In a knockout tournament, the process of determining which teams or individuals will continue to the next round by winning matches and causing their opponents to be eliminated.

Synonyms

knockout stage, qualifying round.

Examples of usage

  • After a series of intense matches, only four teams remain after the elimination round.
  • The elimination round will determine the finalists for the championship.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Science

  • In chemistry, to eliminate often refers to a reaction where two atoms are removed from a molecule, leading to the formation of a double bond.
  • The principle of elimination is used in waste management, emphasizing the importance of reducing waste in sustainable practices.
  • Biologically, cells can eliminate unwanted materials through processes like apoptosis, which means programmed cell death.

Pop Culture

  • The concept of elimination is popular in reality TV shows, where contestants are voted off or 'eliminated' throughout the season.
  • In many sports, teams are eliminated from tournaments based on their performance, creating dramatic narratives and rivalries.
  • Video games often feature 'elimination' as a mechanic, requiring players to remove opponents or obstacles to progress.

Psychology

  • Cognitive-behavioral therapy often helps individuals eliminate negative thought patterns, leading to improved mental health.
  • The act of eliminating distractions is crucial for enhancing focus and productivity in various tasks.
  • In the realm of decision-making, eliminating options can simplify choices and reduce anxiety.

Literature

  • In narrative storytelling, characters often aim to eliminate their fears or obstacles, representing personal growth.
  • Literary devices like foreshadowing can lead to the elimination of suspenseful elements, guiding readers towards the resolution.
  • Many authors create climactic moments where a main conflict must be eliminated, driving the plot's direction.

Origin of 'eliminate'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'eliminare', which means 'to remove' or 'to exclude' from a place.
  • Its roots can be traced back to 'limen', which means 'threshold' or 'limit', emphasizing the idea of crossing boundaries by removing something.
  • In English, it has been used since the late 15th century, originally in a physical removal context.

The word 'eliminate' originated from the Latin word 'eliminare', which means 'to banish' or 'to expel'. It entered the English language in the late 16th century. The concept of elimination has been crucial in various fields, from science to sports, as a way to remove obstacles or determine winners. The word has evolved to represent the act of getting rid of something completely or decisively.


See also: eliminating, elimination, eliminator.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #3,472, this word is part of upper-intermediate vocabulary. While not among the most basic terms, it appears often enough to be valuable for advanced communication.