Dispensing
/dɪˈspɛnsɪŋ/
Definitions
2 meaningsTo give out or distribute something, especially in measured amounts.
/dɪˈspɛns/
To distribute or provide something to a number of people.
The teacher was dispensing exam papers to the students.
💡 Simply: Imagine a machine that gives things out, like a vending machine that *dispenses* candy. It's all about handing out or sharing.
👶 For kids: Giving out or sharing something. Like when the teacher is dispensing pencils to the class.
More Examples
The hospital's pharmacy dispenses prescriptions.
The machine dispenses hot coffee.
The charity is dispensing food parcels to those in need.
How It's Used
"The pharmacy is responsible for dispensing medication to patients."
"The company will be dispensing bonuses to its employees at the end of the year."
"The vending machine dispenses snacks and drinks."
To exempt someone from a rule or requirement.
/dɪˈspɛns/
To exempt someone from a rule or obligation.
The doctor dispensed with the usual routine to expedite treatment.
💡 Simply: Sometimes, you get a special pass. Like, if your homework is late, but the teacher *dispenses* you from the late penalty, it's removed.
👶 For kids: To make it so someone doesn't have to follow a rule. Like when you don't have to do a chore.
More Examples
The judge dispensed with the evidence because it was inadmissible.
The principal dispensed students from the assembly due to the rain.
In certain cases, the law can dispense someone from paying taxes.
How It's Used
"The court can dispense with certain legal formalities in some circumstances."
"The Pope can dispense from religious vows."
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
Idioms & expressions
dispense with
To get rid of something or do without it.
"Let's dispense with the formalities and get straight to the point."
From Middle English *dispensen*, from Old French *dispenser* (to distribute, administer), from Latin *dispensare* (to weigh out, distribute, administer), from *dis-* (apart, away) + *pendere* (to weigh, pay).
Historically, the word has been used in medical contexts (e.g., dispensing medicine) and in legal contexts (e.g., dispensing justice).
Memory tip
Think of a vending machine *dispensing* snacks – it's giving them out.
Word Origin
"to weigh out, distribute"