vacate
Elementary (A2)
IPA: /vəˈkeɪt/
KK: /vəˈkeɪt/
intransitive verb
Definition
To leave a place or position, especially to make it available for someone else.
Example
They decided to vacate the apartment at the end of the month.
Tense Forms
Past: vacated
Past Participle: vacated
Conversation
Are you planning to vacate your apartment soon?
Yeah, I think I will by the end of the month.
That's a good idea; it gives you time to find a new place.
Exactly! I want to make sure I have everything sorted before I vacate.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
depart
leave
exit
Antonyms
arrive
stay
remain
transitive verb
Definition
To leave a place that you have been occupying or to make it empty.
Example
They decided to vacate the apartment at the end of the month.
Tense Forms
Past: vacated
Past Participle: vacated
Conversation
Did you hear that we have to vacate the apartment by the end of the month?
Yeah, I heard about that. It's such a hassle!
I know, right? I can't believe we have to vacate so soon after moving in.
Root Explanation
Vacate → It is formed from "vacare" (meaning to be empty or free). The word "vacate" means to make a place empty or to leave it free.
Memory Tip
Think of making a space 'empty' — 'vacare' means to be free or empty, which helps you remember that to vacate means to leave a place empty.
Visually Confused Words
vacuate
acate
revacate
evacuate
zacate
vocate
pacate
jacate