Definition

Verb: To formally and completely end the existence of (a system, practice, institution, or law), often through an official or legal act. It implies a permanent termination.

Usage and Examples

The verb "abolish" is used with a direct object, which is typically an abstract concept, system, or established rule. It is most commonly used in formal, legal, or historical contexts.

• The government voted to abolish the outdated tax.
• Many countries have abolished the death penalty.
• The new law abolished the feudal system of land ownership.

Advanced Usage

• "to be abolished" (Passive Voice): Used to describe the system or practice that is ended.
  • Slavery was abolished in the British Empire in 1833.
• "to abolish something in favor of something": To end one system to replace it with another.
  • The company abolished the old hierarchy in favor of a more flexible team structure.

Variants and Related Words

• Abolition (noun): The act of abolishing a system or practice.
  • She was a leading figure in the movement for the abolition of slavery.
• Abolitionist (noun): A person who supports or works for the abolition of something.
  • Frederick Douglass was a famous abolitionist.

Synonyms

• Eliminate: To completely remove or get rid of.
• Annul: To declare invalid, especially a legal contract or marriage.
• Repeal: To revoke or annul (a law or act of parliament).
• Nullify: To make legally null and void; invalidate.

Antonyms

• Establish: To set up or institute on a firm or permanent basis.
• Retain: To continue to have; keep.
• Uphold: To maintain or support.

Related Phrases and Concepts

• "Call for the abolition of": To publicly demand that something be ended.
  • Protesters are calling for the abolition of the monarchy.
• "Abolish once and for all": To end something permanently and completely.
  • The treaty aimed to abolish nuclear weapons once and for all.

Verb

1. do away with
   • Slavery was abolished in the mid-19th century in America and in Russia