Oust: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when someone is forcefully driven out of a position or place, often in a political or organizational context.

• The board decided to oust the CEO due to corrupt practices

Commonly used in a context where someone is formally forced to leave an institution or organization, like a school or club.

• The student was expelled for cheating on the exam

Often used when physically forcing someone out of a place, such as a public space or a vehicle. Can also refer to objects being thrown out forcefully.

• The rowdy passenger was ejected from the plane by the flight attendants

A general term used in a variety of situations when someone or something is taken away from a position or place, often without the connotation of force.

• They decided to remove the old furniture from the office

Typically used in a legal or formal context when someone is removed from office or a position of power through a formal process.

• The president was deposed by the military after the coup

Typically used in formal or political contexts when someone is removed from a position or place of power or importance.

• The board voted to oust the CEO after the scandal.
• Protesters managed to oust the dictator from power.

Commonly used in housing or rental situations when someone is forcefully removed from their residence, usually due to legal reasons.

• The landlord decided to evict the tenant for not paying rent.
• They faced eviction after failing to comply with the lease agreement.

Used when referring to someone being deprived of their property or possessions, often with a legal or social justice aspect.

• The indigenous people were dispossessed of their land.
• Many were dispossessed during the economic crisis.

Used mainly in academic or legal situations where someone is removed from an organization, institution, or country.

• The student was expelled for cheating.
• The government decided to expel the foreign diplomat.