Uninstallation: meaning, definitions and examples

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uninstallation

 

[ˌʌnɪnstəˈleɪʃ(ə)n ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

software

The action or process of removing software or an application from a computer or device.

Synonyms

deletion, purge, removal.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
uninstallation

This term is commonly used when referring to the process of removing software or applications from a computer or device.

  • The uninstallation of the antivirus software took only a few minutes.
  • Please follow the instructions to complete the uninstallation of the app.
removal

This is a general term that can be used in various situations where an item or object is taken away or gotten rid of.

  • The removal of the damaged equipment improved safety conditions.
  • We scheduled the removal of the old carpet next week.
deletion

Use this word when referring to the act of removing files, data, or records, typically from a storage medium.

  • Accidental deletion of important files can cause data loss.
  • The deletion of old emails freed up significant storage space.
purge

This term suggests a thorough or complete removal and is often used in more formal or technical contexts, sometimes implying a cleanup or clearing process.

  • The server underwent a data purge to eliminate outdated records.
  • It's recommended to periodically purge unnecessary system logs.

Examples of usage

  • The uninstallation of the software was necessary due to compatibility issues.
  • After the uninstallation, the computer's performance improved significantly.
Context #2 | Noun

general

The act of eliminating or getting rid of something, especially in a systematic or thorough way.

Synonyms

elimination, eradication, removal.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
uninstallation

Used in the context of removing software or applications from a device or system.

  • The uninstallation of the old software was necessary before we could install the new version.
  • He had trouble with the uninstallation process and had to call customer support.
elimination

Typically used to describe the complete removal or getting rid of something, often in a competitive or strategic context.

  • The elimination of the competitor expanded their market share.
  • They achieved the elimination of errors through rigorous testing.
eradication

Often used in the context of completely destroying or wiping out something harmful or unwanted, such as diseases, pests, or social issues.

  • The eradication of polio was a major public health achievement.
  • Efforts towards the eradication of poverty should be a global priority.
removal

Used in a general sense to describe taking something away or off from a position, place, or situation.

  • The removal of the old furniture made space for the new decor.
  • She requested the removal of her name from the mailing list.

Examples of usage

  • The uninstallation of old habits is important for personal growth.
  • She decided on a complete uninstallation of negative influences from her life.
Context #3 | Verb

computing

The process of removing software or an application from a computer or device.

Synonyms

delete, erase, remove.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
uninstallation

This word is typically used when removing software or applications from a device following a specific process.

  • I need to perform the uninstallation of this program because it's causing issues.
  • The uninstallation process was easy and only took a few minutes.
remove

This word is more general and can be used in various contexts to indicate taking away or getting rid of something, not just digital content.

  • Please remove your shoes before entering the house.
  • I need to remove this app from my phone because it takes up too much space.
delete

Use this word when you need to permanently remove a file, document, or piece of data from a digital device or system.

  • Can you delete that email? It's not needed anymore.
  • I accidentally deleted my entire project folder.
erase

This word is often used when talking about removing or wiping out data completely. It can also describe removing marks or drawings from surfaces like paper or whiteboards.

  • Make sure to erase all the data on the hard drive before selling it.
  • She quickly erased the notes from the whiteboard.

Examples of usage

  • I need to uninstall this program to free up space on my hard drive.
  • She uninstalled the app to troubleshoot the issue.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The prefix 'un-' means 'not' or 'remove', while 'installation' comes from the Latin 'instalare', meaning to place or set up.
  • This word first appeared in the tech world in the late 20th century, as personal computers became common.

Technology

  • In modern operating systems, uninstallation is often managed through a control panel or settings menu, making it accessible to users.
  • Improper uninstallation can leave behind files and settings, leading to 'software bloat' or other performance issues.
  • There are programs specifically designed to assist with thorough uninstallation, ensuring no leftover data remains.

Psychology

  • Users may experience 'software attachment', finding it mentally challenging to remove programs even when they are no longer needed.
  • The act of uninstallation can provide a sense of relief and control, as users clear out clutter from their devices.

Education

  • Understanding uninstallation helps users learn more about computer maintenance, a crucial skill in today's digital age.
  • Many schools offer basic computer classes that include how to install and uninstall software, empowering students with tech skills.

Pop Culture

  • Movies and TV shows often depict a character uninstalling software as a means of creating suspense, representing control over technology.
  • In video games, uninstalling can be a comedic element, either as a character tries to remove a dreaded game or as a metaphor for letting go.

Translations

Translations of the word "uninstallation" in other languages:

🇵🇹 desinstalação

🇮🇳 स्थापना रद्द करना

🇩🇪 Deinstallation

🇮🇩 pencopotan

🇺🇦 деінсталяція

🇵🇱 odinstalowanie

🇯🇵 アンインストール

🇫🇷 désinstallation

🇪🇸 desinstalación

🇹🇷 kaldırma

🇰🇷 제거

🇸🇦 إزالة التثبيت

🇨🇿 odinstalace

🇸🇰 odinštalovanie

🇨🇳 卸载

🇸🇮 odstranitev

🇮🇸 afstilling

🇰🇿 жою

🇬🇪 დაინსტალაციის მოხსნა

🇦🇿 dəstəkdən çıxarma

🇲🇽 desinstalación