Definition

Verb: 1. To end or extinguish something completely, especially something undesirable, by using forceful or determined action. This meaning emphasizes using decisive effort to eliminate a problem, practice, or condition.

Usage

The verb "stamp out" is transitive and requires a direct object (the thing being eliminated). It is often used in contexts related to social issues, diseases, or harmful practices. The phrase conveys a sense of forceful, definitive action.

Examples

• The government launched a new campaign to stamp out corruption in the public sector.
• Public health officials are working hard to stamp out the infectious disease before it spreads further.
• We must stamp out these dangerous rumors immediately.
• The new policy aims to stamp out discrimination in the workplace.

Advanced Usage

• "to stamp something out": The direct object can be placed between "stamp" and "out," though this is less common than the standard structure.
  • The community is determined to stamp this injustice out.

Variants and Related Words

• Stamping (noun): The act or process of stamping. (Note: This is a related form of the base verb "stamp," not a direct variant of the phrasal verb "stamp out.")
• Eradicate (verb): To destroy completely; wipe out. A close synonym often used in similar contexts.
• Eliminate (verb): To completely remove or get rid of something.

Synonyms

• Eradicate
• Eliminate
• Wipe out
• Crush
• Put an end to
• Extinguish

Related Phrasal Verbs

• Stamp on (something): To put your foot down heavily on something. This literal meaning is the origin of the figurative "stamp out."
  • He stamped on the insect.

Related Idioms

• Nip something in the bud: To stop something at an early stage before it can develop into something larger. This idiom shares the concept of prevention but implies earlier, less forceful action than "stamp out."
  • We need to nip this problem in the bud before it gets worse.

Verb

1. end or extinguish by forceful means
   • Stamp out poverty!