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Unplug Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ”Œ
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unplug

[สŒnหˆplสŒษก ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

device

To disconnect a device from an electrical power source or to stop using it.

Synonyms

disconnect, pull the plug, remove the plug.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
unplug

Use when you need to take out a plug from an electrical socket.

  • Unplug the phone charger when it's fully charged
  • Always unplug the toaster after use
disconnect

Used in both physical and non-physical contexts, often referring to stopping a connection.

  • You should disconnect from social media to relax
  • Disconnect the internet cable if itโ€™s not working
remove the plug

More formal. Used for physically taking out a plug. Often used in detailed instructions.

  • Please remove the plug carefully before attempting any repairs
  • Remove the plug to completely shut down the machine
pull the plug

Informal. Used mostly metaphorically, and can imply ending a project or activity.

  • After many failed attempts, they decided to pull the plug on the new software
  • The company had to pull the plug on the unprofitable branch

Examples of usage

  • Please remember to unplug the toaster after each use.
  • Before leaving the house, make sure to unplug all electronic devices.
Context #2 | Verb

emotion

To take a break from technology or the digital world in order to relax or recharge.

Synonyms

disconnect, step away, take a break.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
unplug

Same word repeated. Use the previous entry for 'unplug.'
disconnect

Primarily used in the context of severing a physical, electronic, or emotional connection. More formal than 'unplug' and can imply a more complete separation.

  • Please disconnect the HDMI cable from the computer.
  • She decided to disconnect from work emails during the vacation.
take a break

Used when one intends to pause an activity for rest and recovery. It often suggests a temporary halt and is more general than 'unplug' or 'step away.'

  • It's important to take a break after working for several hours.
  • During the long drive, we took a break at a rest stop.
step away

Used to indicate physically moving away from something, usually for a short period. Commonly used to describe taking a brief break from an activity.

  • I need to step away from the computer for a few minutes.
  • He had to step away from the meeting to take an urgent call.

Examples of usage

  • After a long day of work, I like to unplug and unwind with a book.
  • It's important to unplug from social media occasionally for mental health.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'unplug'

The word 'unplug' originated in the late 20th century as technology became more prevalent in daily life. It reflects the physical act of removing a plug from an electrical outlet to disconnect a device. Over time, 'unplug' has also come to symbolize the act of taking a break from technology or the digital world to relax and recharge. In today's hyper-connected world, the concept of unplugging has gained importance as a way to reduce stress and maintain mental well-being.

See also: plug, plugin, unpluggable, unplugged.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #35,545, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.