What Does “Dismiss sth” Mean?
“Dismiss sth” means to reject or decide that something is not important or true. It is often used when refusing to consider an idea, opinion, or claim.
Introduction
The phrase “dismiss sth” is a common phrasal verb in English. It is used when someone decides to ignore or reject something, such as an idea, thought, or complaint. Understanding the dismiss sth meaning helps learners use it properly in both formal and informal contexts. For example, a manager might dismiss an employee’s suggestion if they think it won’t work. Learning how to use “dismiss sth” will improve your communication skills and help you express disagreement or refusal clearly. This phrase is useful in conversations, writing, and professional settings.
Quick Info Box
- Phrasal verb: dismiss sth (dismiss something)
- Type: Transitive
- Level: B2
- Short meaning: To reject or refuse to consider something
Structure (Grammar Rules)
“Dismiss sth” is a transitive phrasal verb, which means it always needs an object (something to dismiss).
It is inseparable, so the object always comes after “dismiss.”
- Correct: She dismissed the idea.
- Incorrect: She dismissed.
Patterns:
- Subject + dismiss + object
- Example: They dismissed the complaint quickly.
How to Use “Dismiss sth”?
You use “dismiss sth” when you want to say that something is not important or that you refuse to accept it. It can be used in many situations, such as dismissing a claim, a feeling, an idea, or even a person’s opinion.
It often appears in formal speech, like in business or law, but can also be used in everyday conversations. For example, if someone tells you a rumor, and you don’t believe it, you can say, “I dismiss that rumor.”
Remember, “dismiss sth” focuses on the action of rejecting or ignoring something deliberately.
Examples
- The judge dismissed the case due to lack of evidence.
- Don’t dismiss her opinion without listening carefully.
- He dismissed the warning as unimportant.
- They dismissed the idea because it was too expensive.
- She quickly dismissed the question and changed the subject.
Here is “dismiss sth in a sentence” to help you understand better:
“The company dismissed the complaint after investigating the issue.”
Common Mistakes
- Incorrect: She dismissed quickly.
Correct: She dismissed the proposal quickly. - Incorrect: They dismissed on the idea.
Correct: They dismissed the idea. - Incorrect: I dismiss.
Correct: I dismiss your argument.
Differences / Synonyms
Similar verbs include reject, ignore, and refuse. However, “dismiss sth” often carries the meaning of rejecting something after consideration.
- Dismiss vs Reject: “Reject” means to refuse completely without acceptance, while “dismiss” can imply deciding something is unworthy of attention.
- Dismiss vs Ignore: “Ignore” means not paying attention, but “dismiss” means actively deciding not to accept.
- Dismiss vs Refuse: “Refuse” is usually about not agreeing to do something, while “dismiss” is about rejecting ideas or claims.
Common Collocations
- Dismiss a claim
- Dismiss an idea
- Dismiss a complaint
- Dismiss a suggestion
- Dismiss a rumor
- Dismiss a case
Real-life Dialogue
Anna: Did you hear about the new policy? Some people say it won’t work.
Tom: I heard, but I think we should not dismiss their concerns too quickly.
Anna: True, but management dismissed the complaints last week.
Tom: That might cause more problems later.
Practice
Choose the correct sentence:
- a) She dismissed quickly the report.
- b) She dismissed the report quickly.
- c) She quickly dismissed.
Answer: b) She dismissed the report quickly.
FAQs
- Q: Can “dismiss sth” be used in informal conversation?
A: Yes, but it is more common in formal or professional contexts. - Q: Is “dismiss sth” separable?
A: No, the object always comes after “dismiss.” - Q: What is the difference between “dismiss” and “ignore”?
A: “Dismiss” means actively rejecting something, while “ignore” means not paying attention. - Q: Can I use “dismiss” with people?
A: Yes, it can also mean to remove someone from a job or position. - Q: What level of English is “dismiss sth”?
A: It is usually considered B2 level.
