C1verbformal10K+

Abolish

UK //əˈbɒlɪʃ//US //əˈbɑːlɪʃ//

Definition

To formally put an end to a system, practice, or institution.

In simple words: To officially end something or cancel it.

Examples

  • The government decided to abolish the outdated tax law.
  • Activists worked tirelessly to abolish slavery worldwide.
  • Many countries have moved to abolish capital punishment.
  • The organization aims to abolish poverty through various initiatives.
  • It is time to abolish practices that discriminate against minorities.

Usage notes

Used in a formal context, often related to laws, practices, or institutions. Not typically used in everyday casual conversation.

Grammar pattern

abolish + object

Memory hint

Think of 'Abolish' as 'A-Ball-Ish' - imagine a ball that you decide to throw away completely.

Collocations

  • abolish laws
  • abolish practices
  • abolish the death penalty
  • abolish slavery
  • abolish taxes

Synonyms

  • eliminate
  • repeal
  • terminate
  • annul
  • dissolve

Antonyms

  • establish
  • retain

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'eliminate' which implies removal but not necessarily cancellation.
  • Using 'abolish' with non-nouns (e.g., cannot say 'abolish quickly').