Dispensable

Adjective

Definition: Able to be replaced or done without; superfluous.

Synonyms: Expendable, Unnecessary, Unessential

Antonyms: Indispensable, Essential

Examples:
  • The extra decorations on the cake were dispensable and could be removed.
  • In times of financial constraint, luxuries are often considered dispensable.
Mnemonics:
  • Think of "dispense" and how something dispensable can be easily dispensed with or removed.
  • The prefix "dis-" can suggest negation or removal, so dispensable means something that can be removed or negated.

Etymology:

Origin:

The word "dispensable" comes from the Latin word "dispensabilis," which means "able to be dispensed with." It is derived from the verb "dispensare," meaning "to distribute" or "to weigh out." This Latin root gives the sense of something that can be distributed, divided, or done away with.

Historical Usage:

"Dispensable" has been used in English since the 15th century, primarily in the context of describing things or qualities that are not necessary or essential.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"Dispensable income"

Explanation:

Refers to the income that is left over after satisfying essential expenses, such as housing, food, and transportation. It is the income that is available to be spent or saved at one's discretion.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Confusing "dispensable" with "indispensable."

Explanation:

"Dispensable" means something that can be replaced or done without, while "indispensable" means something that is absolutely necessary or essential. They are antonyms, so it is important to use the correct term based on the intended meaning.

Share: Twitter Facebook LinkedIn