Elimination: meaning, definitions and examples

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elimination

 

[ ɪˌlɪmɪˈneɪʃən ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

in sports

The process of removing a team or individual from a competition or tournament by defeating them.

Synonyms

ejection, exclusion, removal.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
elimination

Used when referring to removing or getting rid of something completely, often in a systematic or strategic manner. Commonly used in contexts like competitions, processes, or disease control.

  • The elimination of errors from the system is our top priority.
  • His team faced elimination in the semi-finals.
removal

Used in a general sense to refer to taking away or getting rid of something or someone. It can be used in various contexts including physical objects, people from positions, or abstract concepts.

  • The removal of the old furniture was a tough job.
  • His removal from the board of directors came as a surprise.
ejection

Used when someone or something is being forcefully removed, often in a sudden and physical manner. This word is often used in sports, machinery, or physical altercations.

  • The referee called for his ejection after the foul play.
  • The pilot managed to survive by ejection just before the crash.
exclusion

Used when someone or something is left out or not allowed to participate. It often carries a negative connotation of unfairness or discrimination.

  • The exclusion of minorities from the event sparked a controversy.
  • His social exclusion made him feel isolated.

Examples of usage

  • His elimination from the tournament was a major upset.
  • After their elimination, they were disappointed but determined to do better next time.
Context #2 | Noun

in science

The process of expelling waste or unwanted substances from the body.

Synonyms

discharge, excretion, purging.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
elimination

Used in a broad context when something is completely removed or gotten rid of. Often used in sports, competitions, or processes.

  • The elimination of the weaker teams made the tournament more exciting
  • The goal of the project is the elimination of all waste products
excretion

Used specifically for the biological process where living organisms expel waste materials. Generally used in scientific or medical contexts.

  • The kidneys play a crucial role in the excretion of waste products from the blood
  • Different species have different methods of waste excretion
discharge

Used when something is released from a confined space, often referring to fluids or gases. Can also refer to letting someone go from a place like a hospital or a job.

  • The factory was fined for the illegal discharge of chemicals into the river
  • He was discharged from the hospital after a full recovery
purging

Used when something is forcefully expelled or rid of impurities. Often has a negative connotation when referring to harsh or extreme actions, but can also refer to internal cleansing in medical or metaphorical terms.

  • The company underwent a purging of corrupt officials
  • She felt better after purging her system of toxins during the detox diet

Examples of usage

  • After the elimination of toxins, the patient started to feel better.
  • It is important to support the body's natural elimination processes.
Context #3 | Noun

in problem-solving

The act of getting rid of possibilities one by one until only one option remains.

Synonyms

exclusion, rejection, removal.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
elimination

This word is often used in the context of competition, medical processes, or problem-solving when something or someone is being completely removed or defeated.

  • The elimination round will determine who moves on to the finals.
  • The patient's treatment focused on the elimination of the cancer cells.
  • Elimination of errors is critical for the success of the project.
exclusion

This term is used when something or someone is deliberately left out or prevented from participation, often implying a negative or unfair act.

  • The exclusion of certain groups from the event sparked controversy.
  • Her exclusion from the team was due to her poor performance.
  • Exclusion of non-essential items helped to streamline the process.
removal

Used when something is being physically taken away or gotten rid of, this term is general and can apply to many different situations.

  • The removal of the old furniture will create space for new items.
  • They scheduled the removal of the tree for next week.
  • Her removal from the list was due to a clerical error.
rejection

This word is commonly used to describe the act of not accepting, approving, or agreeing with something, often in emotional or professional scenarios.

  • He faced rejection after his job interview.
  • The proposal met with rejection from the board of directors.
  • Rejection is part of the learning process for any writer.

Examples of usage

  • Through the process of elimination, we were able to find the correct answer.
  • She used elimination to narrow down the choices and make a decision.

Translations

Translations of the word "elimination" in other languages:

🇵🇹 eliminação

🇮🇳 उन्मूलन

🇩🇪 Beseitigung

🇮🇩 eliminasi

🇺🇦 усунення

🇵🇱 eliminacja

🇯🇵 排除 (はいじょ)

🇫🇷 élimination

🇪🇸 eliminación

🇹🇷 eleme

🇰🇷 제거 (jegeo)

🇸🇦 إزالة

🇨🇿 eliminace

🇸🇰 eliminácia

🇨🇳 消除 (xiāochú)

🇸🇮 odprava

🇮🇸 brottfall

🇰🇿 жою

🇬🇪 განადგურება

🇦🇿 aradan qaldırma

🇲🇽 eliminación

Etymology

The word 'elimination' comes from the Latin word 'eliminare', meaning 'to banish' or 'to expel'. It has been used in various contexts throughout history, from sports competitions to scientific research. The concept of elimination is fundamental in problem-solving and decision-making processes, helping to narrow down options and reach conclusions. Understanding the different meanings and contexts of 'elimination' can enhance communication and problem-solving skills.

See also: eliminate, eliminating, eliminator.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #4,671, this word represents useful upper-intermediate vocabulary. Understanding and using it will help you express more complex ideas effectively.