deploy
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /dɪˈplɔɪ/
KK: /dɪˈplɔɪ/
intransitive verb
Definition
To be positioned or arranged for use, especially in a military or strategic context.
Example
The troops will deploy at dawn to secure the area.
Tense Forms
Past: deployed
Past Participle: deployed
Conversation
Did you hear that they might deploy more troops next month?
Yeah, I read something about that. It's concerning.
I hope they don’t have to deploy them at all.
Same here; I'd rather they focus on peacekeeping efforts.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
station
position
arrange
Antonyms
withdraw
displace
recede
transitive verb
Definition
To arrange or position something for a specific purpose, often in a strategic way.
Example
The military will deploy additional troops to the area for training.
Tense Forms
Past: deployed
Past Participle: deployed
Conversation
Did you hear how they plan to deploy the new units next week?
Yeah, it's about time they took action.
I wonder how they'll deploy those forces in such a short time.
Root Explanation
Deploy → It is formed from "de-" (meaning down or away) and "plicare" (meaning to fold). The word "deploy" means to unfold or spread out, particularly in a military context where troops are arranged for action.
Memory Tip
Think of 'unfolding' or 'spreading out' when you hear 'deploy' — 'de-' means down or away, and 'plicare' means to fold.
Visually Confused Words
redeploy
employ
deeply
ploy
disemploy