Cool MateDiscard
UK //dɪsˈkɑːd//US //dɪsˈkɑrd//
Definition
To get rid of something that is no longer needed or wanted.
In simple words: To throw something away or get rid of it.
Examples
- Please discard any items that are damaged.
- He decided to discard the old furniture before moving.
- Don't discard your dreams so easily.
- After the experiment, we need to discard the used materials.
- You should discard any unnecessary files from your computer.
- The chef had to discard the spoiled ingredients.
Usage notes
Use 'discard' when talking about getting rid of things that are no longer wanted or needed. It's appropriate in both formal and informal contexts.
Grammar pattern
discard + object
Memory hint
Think of 'discard' as 'dis' + 'card' - when you throw away a card you no longer need.
Collocations
- discard a plan
- discard evidence
- discard old habits
Synonyms
- throw away
- dispose of
- junk
- cast off
- abandon
Antonyms
- keep
- retain
- preserve
Common mistakes
- Confuse with 'dispose of' which has similar meaning but is more formal.
- Use 'discard' incorrectly with non-physical items, like feelings.
- Misuse the tense; should be 'discarded' in past forms.