Understanding the English Phrasal Verb: How to Use "Do Away With" Correctly
Learning English phrasal verbs can be tricky, but it's essential for fluency. One such common idiomatic expression is "do away with." This post will help you understand what "do away with" means and how to use it effectively. We'll explore its different meanings, grammatical structures, provide synonyms, and offer practice exercises to solidify your learning. Get ready to enhance your vocabulary and confidently use "do away with" in your conversations and writing!
Table of Contents
- What Does "Do away with" Mean?
- Structure with "Do away with"
- Related Phrases and Synonyms
- Practice Time!
- Conclusion
What Does "Do away with" Mean?
The phrasal verb "do away with" is a highly useful and common idiomatic expression in the English language. At its core, it signifies the act of getting rid of, abolishing, or eliminating something. This "something" could be a physical object, an old rule, a harmful practice, or even an abstract idea that is no longer considered necessary, desirable, or functional. Understanding this fundamental meaning is crucial because "do away with" often implies a deliberate decision to end something's existence or use. It suggests a transition from having something to not having it anymore, usually for a perceived improvement or simplification. Many English learners find phrasal verbs challenging, but breaking them down like this makes them more accessible.
More: Dig Up: Meanings and Usage of the Phrasal Verb in English
Structure with "Do away with"
The phrasal verb "do away with" is a multi-word verb that functions as a single semantic unit. Grammatically, it is typically transitive, meaning it requires a direct object – the thing that is being eliminated or abolished. For example, you "do away with something." It's also generally inseparable, which means the words "do," "away," and "with" stay together when an object is present. You cannot say "do something away with."
Let's delve into its common meanings and corresponding structures.
Meaning 1: To Abolish or Eliminate (a rule, system, practice, or institution)
This is the most prominent and formal use of "do away with". It often refers to the official or decisive termination of established systems, laws, regulations, or long-standing practices that are deemed obsolete, unjust, or inefficient. Think of it as making something legally or officially void.
- Structure: Subject + do/does/did + away + with + Object (the rule, system, etc.)
- Example 1: The city council voted to do away with parking fees on weekends to encourage more visitors. (This implies a formal decision to eliminate the fees).
- Example 2: Many people hope that future technological advancements will help us do away with poverty. (This expresses a desire to eliminate a significant societal problem).
Meaning 2: To Get Rid Of or Discard (something unwanted or no longer needed)
This meaning is slightly less formal than the first and can apply to a wider range of objects or habits. It's about removing something from one's possession or environment because it's no longer useful, takes up space, or is simply undesired.
- Structure: Subject + do/does/did + away + with + Object (the unwanted item, habit, etc.)
- Example 1: We really need to do away with all this clutter in the attic before winter. (This refers to discarding physical objects).
- Example 2: She decided it was time to do away with her unhealthy eating habits and start a new diet. (This refers to eliminating a personal behavior).
Meaning 3: To Kill or Murder (informal, often euphemistic, and less common)
This particular meaning of "do away with" is significantly less common in modern, everyday English and often carries a euphemistic or dramatic tone. It typically appears in fictional narratives, older texts, or in very informal, sometimes veiled, discussions of harm. It's important to recognize this meaning for comprehension but use it with extreme caution, if at all, due to its serious implications.
- Structure: Subject + do/does/did + away + with + Object (person/animal)
- Example 1: In the old detective novel, the gangster plotted to do away with his rival. (This usage highlights its literary and somewhat archaic feel for this meaning).
- Example 2: There were dark rumors that the king had done away with anyone who opposed him. (This implies a secretive and illicit act of killing).
Tips for Using "Do Away With" Correctly
- Remember the "with": A common mistake is forgetting the preposition "with." "Do away" by itself doesn't carry the same meaning. The "with" is essential.
- Transitive Nature: Always ensure there's an object following "do away with." Ask yourself, "do away with what?"
- Context is Key: The specific meaning of "do away with" (abolish vs. discard vs. kill) is heavily dependent on the context of the sentence and the object it refers to.
- Formality: While "get rid of" is a good general synonym, "do away with" can sound slightly more formal or definitive, especially when referring to rules or systems.
Passive Voice with "Do Away With"
The phrasal verb "do away with" can also be used in the passive voice, which is common when the focus is on the thing being eliminated rather than the agent doing the eliminating.
- Structure (Passive): Object + (be) + done + away + with (+ by Agent)
- Example 1: Outdated school regulations were done away with last year. (The focus is on the regulations).
- Example 2: It is hoped that this inefficient process will be done away with soon. (Focus on the process).
Understanding these structural nuances, including its transitivity, inseparability, and passive voice forms, will significantly enhance your ability to use "do away with" accurately and effectively. This phrase is a valuable tool for expressing elimination or abolition in English.
More: Decoding 'Call Away': Your Guide to This Essential Phrasal Verb
Related Phrases and Synonyms
Expanding your vocabulary around the concept of elimination or abolition can greatly enhance your English proficiency. While "do away with" is a versatile phrasal verb, knowing its synonyms and related phrases allows for more nuanced expression. Each alternative carries slightly different connotations or levels of formality.
Here's a detailed look at some common synonyms for "do away with", focusing on its primary meanings:
| Synonym | Meaning | Explanation & Nuance | Example Sentence |
|---|---|---|---|
| Eliminate | To completely remove or get rid of something, often something undesirable. | More formal than "get rid of." Often used for problems, errors, or competition. Implies a thorough removal. | The new software aims to eliminate security vulnerabilities. |
| Abolish | To formally put an end to a system, practice, or institution. | Very formal. Typically used for laws, official systems, or long-standing traditions that are officially terminated. Often implies a collective or authoritative decision. | Many countries have abolished the death penalty. |
| Get rid of | To take action so as to be free of (someone or something unwanted). | More informal and general than "eliminate" or "abolish." Can be used for objects, people (in certain contexts), or habits. It's a very common and versatile alternative. | I need to get rid of these old newspapers cluttering the garage. |
| Remove | To take something away or off from the position occupied; to take away. | A general term that can mean to physically move something, or to take something out of consideration. Less strong than "eliminate" or "abolish" in terms of finality. | Please remove your hat indoors. The committee decided to remove the controversial clause. |
| Discard | To get rid of something that is no longer useful or desirable; to throw away. | Often used for physical objects that are being thrown out. Can also apply to ideas or beliefs that are rejected. Implies that the item has lost its value or utility. | She decided to discard all clothes she hadn't worn in a year. |
| Eradicate | To destroy completely; put an end to (something, especially something bad). | A very strong and formal synonym, often used for widespread problems like diseases, poverty, or pests. Implies a complete and total destruction or removal. | Scientists are working to eradicate polio worldwide. |
| Repeal | (Of a legislative body) to revoke or annul (a law or congressional act). | Specifically used for laws or official acts that are cancelled by a legislative authority. Highly formal and specific to legal/governmental contexts. | The parliament voted to repeal the unpopular tax. |
Choosing the right synonym depends on the context, the level of formality desired, and the specific nuance you wish to convey. For instance, you would abolish a law, eliminate a problem, discard old clothes, and eradicate a disease. While "do away with" can cover many of these situations, particularly the idea of abolishing or getting rid of something unwanted, these synonyms provide more precise options. Understanding these distinctions will help you make more sophisticated vocabulary choices and better comprehend texts that use these alternatives to do away with.
More: Understanding 'Dig Into': Meaning, Usage, and Examples
Practice Time!
Let's put your knowledge to the test! These exercises will help you check your understanding of how to use the phrasal verb "do away with" correctly in different contexts. Select the best answer for each question.
Question 1: "The school board decided to __________ the outdated dress code policy because it was no longer practical." a) do with away
b) doing away with
c) do away with
d) did away
Correct answer: c
Explanation: The sentence requires the base form of the phrasal verb after "to." "Do away with" means to abolish or eliminate.
Question 2: Which of the following best describes the phrasal verb "do away with"? a) It is always separable.
b) It is typically transitive and inseparable.
c) It primarily means to create or invent.
d) It is only used in very informal contexts.
Correct answer: b
Explanation: "Do away with" usually takes an object (transitive) and the parts "do away with" stay together (inseparable).
Question 3: "Many old customs __________ as society modernized." Choose the correct passive form. a) was done away with
b) were done away with
c) did away with
d) have did away with
Correct answer: b
Explanation: "Customs" is plural, so "were" is needed. The passive structure is "be + done away with."
Question 4: What is a common synonym for "do away with" when referring to abolishing a law? a) Discard
b) Remove
c) Abolish
d) Create
Correct answer: c
Explanation: "Abolish" is a very fitting synonym for formally ending a law or system, similar to a key meaning of "do away with."
Regular practice with exercises like these is an excellent way to internalize the usage of English phrasal verbs such as do away with. The more you encounter and use them, the more natural they will become.
Conclusion
In summary, the English phrasal verb "do away with" is a powerful tool for expressing the elimination, abolition, or disposal of something. By understanding its core meanings, recognizing its typical grammatical structure (transitive and inseparable), and familiarizing yourself with its common applications, you can significantly enhance your communication skills. We've seen how it applies to rules, objects, and even, less commonly, in more serious contexts. Don't forget the importance of context and the slight nuances compared to its synonyms. Consistent practice in reading, listening, and speaking will help you master "do away with" and use it confidently, making your English sound more fluent and precise.