B2verb2K

Rid

UK /["/rɪd/","/rɪdz/","/ˈrɪdɪŋ/"]/US /["/rɪd/","/rɪdz/","/ˈrɪdɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to be free of somebody/something that has been annoying you or that you do not want

In simple words: to get free from something unpleasant or unwanted

Examples

  • She wanted to be rid of her parents and their authority.
  • I was glad to be rid of the car when I finally sold it.
  • He was a nuisance and we're all **well rid of** him *(= we'll be much better without him)*.
  • Try and get rid of your visitors before I get there.
  • The problem is getting rid of nuclear waste.
  • I can't get rid of this headache.
  • We got rid of all the old furniture.
  • Are you trying to say you want rid of me?

Usage notes

Used when talking about eliminating something troublesome. Often used in contexts where something is being cleaned or cleared away. Not usually used in formal writing.

Grammar pattern

rid + object

Memory hint

Sounds like 'rid' — think of a king getting rid of pests in his castle.

Collocations

  • get rid of
  • rid oneself
  • rid the world

Synonyms

  • remove
  • cleave
  • eliminate
  • expel
  • dispose

Antonyms

  • keep
  • retain
  • hold

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'rid of' phrase usage.
  • Incorrectly using 'rid' as a transitive verb without an object.
  • Misplacing the object in the sentence.