decertify

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: /dɪˈsɜːrtɪfaɪ/

KK: /dɪˈsɜr.tɪ.faɪ/

transitive verb

Definition

To take away the official approval or certification from something or someone.

Example

The organization decided to decertify the training program due to safety concerns.

Tense Forms

Past: decertified

Past Participle: decertified

Conversation

Did you hear they might decertify the union at work?

Yeah, I read about that. It’s a big deal.

I can't believe it; that would really change things for everyone.

Definitely, it could impact our benefits and job security.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

revoke

withdraw

cancel

Antonyms

certify

approve

validate

Root Explanation

Decertify → It is formed from "de-" (meaning down or away) and "certify" (from Latin "certificare", meaning to make certain or to confirm). The word "decertify" means to remove the certification or to take away the confirmation of something.

Memory Tip

Think of 'taking away' ('de-') the 'confirmation' ('certify') — that's why decertify means to remove a certification.

Visually Confused Words

recertify