dispense with

1. Manage without, forgo, as in We can dispense with the extra help . Shakespeare had this idiom in Timon of Athens (3:2): “Men must learn now with pity to dispense.” [c. 1600]

2. Exempt one from a law, promise, or obligation, as in He asked the court to dispense with swearing on the Bible . This usage originally applied to religious obligations (to which the Pope granted dispensation ). [Early 1500s]

3. Get rid of, do away with, as in The European Union is trying to dispense with tariff barriers . [Late 1500s]

Example Sentences

“Let's dispense with any idea that climate finance is charity. An ambitious new climate finance goal is entirely in the self-interest of every nation, including the largest and wealthiest,” he told delegates.

From BBC

Trump, however, dispensed with the fiction that we are debating the subjective quality of humor.

From Salon

Disagreements with the club's new owners nevertheless meant Chelsea dispensed with his services.

From BBC

Paramount dispenses with the slickness and some of the how-to’s of other tours, focusing instead on its historic Hollywood locale on Melrose Avenue.

From Los Angeles Times

“Let it be known that one of the donors of this building is absolutely delighted that your generation has decided to dispense with the unnecessary columns.”

From BBC

Related Words

• abolish
• dispose of
• disregard
• do without
• forgo
• get rid of
• ignore
• relinquish
• waive