1 B1 neutral
To throw away or get rid of something, especially in a proper or responsible manner.
"Please dispose of your litter in the bins provided."
inseparable
dispose of
B1 neutral inseparable transitive
To get rid of something by discarding, selling, or dealing with it in an appropriate way.
In plain English
To get rid of something properly, like throwing it away or dealing with it.
What does "dispose of" mean?
4 meanings, ordered from most common to least. Color-coded by CEFR level.
2 B2 idiomatic neutral
To deal with a problem, task, or opponent quickly and effectively.
"The champion disposed of her opponent in straight sets."
inseparable
3 C1 formal
To sell or transfer ownership of property or assets.
"He disposed of his shares in the company before the scandal broke."
inseparable
4 C1 idiomatic informal
(Euphemistic/informal) To kill someone.
"In the thriller, the villain disposed of anyone who knew too much."
inseparable
Usage tip
Used in both formal and everyday contexts. In legal and environmental contexts, it implies proper or lawful removal. Euphemistically used to mean killing someone (informal/slang). Very common in instructions, regulations, and notices.
Words that pair with "dispose of"
Natural word combinations native speakers use most often.
waste evidence body rubbish assets matter
How to conjugate "dispose of"
The five tense forms you'll use most often.
Base
dispose of
I/you/we/they
3rd person
disposes of
he/she/it
Past simple
disposed of
yesterday
Past participle
disposed of
have + pp
-ing form
disposing of
continuous
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