C1verb formal 3K

Deprive

UK //dɪˈpraɪv// US //dɪˈpraɪv// Pronunciation

Definition

To take something away from someone or something.

Listen to definition

In simple words: To take something away from someone.

Examples

• The harsh winter deprived many families of basic necessities.
• Lack of education can deprive individuals of future opportunities.
• The new law may deprive citizens of their rights.
• He felt that the decision would deprive him of his identity.
• The drought deprived the region of water supplies.

Usage notes

Used in formal contexts, often in legal or academic discussions. Avoid in casual speech. Often conveys a strong sense of loss.

Grammar pattern

deprive + object + of + object

Memory hint

Think of 'deprive' as 'deep dive' into what someone has lost.

Collocations

• deprive someone of something
• deprive rights
• deprive access

Synonyms

• strip
• withhold
• rob
• deprive
• deny

Antonyms

• provide
• give
• supply

Common mistakes

• Confusing with 'deny', which has a different nuance.
• Using the wrong preposition, e.g., saying 'deprive someone from something' instead of 'of'.
• Incorrectly conjugating the verb in past or continuous forms.