disengage
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /dɪsɪnˈɡeɪdʒ/
KK: /dɪsɪnˈɡeɪdʒ/
intransitive verb
Definition
To separate or remove oneself from a situation or connection.
Example
After the argument, she decided to disengage from the conversation.
Tense Forms
Past: disengaged
Past Participle: disengaged
Conversation
I felt really overwhelmed at the party last night.
Yeah, it can get pretty intense with so many people around.
Exactly! I had to disengage for a bit to catch my breath.
That's a smart move — sometimes you just need a moment to yourself.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
detach
withdraw
separate
Antonyms
engage
attach
connect
transitive verb
Definition
To free or remove oneself from a commitment, connection, or obligation.
Example
She decided to disengage from the project to focus on her studies.
Tense Forms
Past: disengaged
Past Participle: disengaged
Conversation
I think it's time to disengage from that group project.
Really? I thought you were enjoying it.
Not anymore, it's just too overwhelming right now.
Root Explanation
Disengage → It is formed from "dis-" (meaning apart) and "engager" (from Old French, meaning to bind or involve). The word means to separate or remove oneself from an engagement or involvement.
Memory Tip
Think of 'dis-' meaning apart and 'engager' meaning to bind — so disengage means to remove the binding or involvement.
Visually Confused Words
drengage
engage