formal 10K+

Disqualification

UK //ˌdɪskwɒlɪfɪˈkeɪʃən// US //ˌdɪskwɑːlɪfɪˈkeɪʃən// Pronunciation

Definition

The act of declaring someone unqualified to participate in a competition or event.

Listen to definition

In simple words: Not being allowed to participate due to rules.

Examples

• Her disqualification from the finals shocked everyone at the tournament.
• The committee reviewed the disqualification of the athlete after a doping violation.
• The disqualification of the player's score changed the outcome of the game.
• He faced disqualification for failing to meet the competition's requirements.
• Their disqualification happened after they broke multiple safety rules.

Usage notes

Used in formal contexts like sports, exams, or official settings. Not common in casual conversation.

Grammar pattern

disqualification + of + noun

Memory hint

Think of 'dis' as in 'not' and 'qualification' as meeting the criteria - it's not meeting the criteria!

Collocations

• face disqualification
• issue a disqualification
• result in disqualification
• grounds for disqualification
• appeal a disqualification

Synonyms

• exclusion
• disbarment
• removal
• barment
• disenfranchisement

Common mistakes

• Confused with 'disqualify', which is the verb form.
• Using disqualification in informal contexts where simpler terms are preferred.
• Mismatching singular and plural forms, e.g. saying 'disqualifications' when referring to a single instance.