disconnect

To break or stop a link between things, such as a phone call or internet connection.

• The call was disconnected.
• My computer disconnected from the internet.
• Can you disconnect this cable from the printer?

How to use it: disconnect something from something (Disconnect the cable from the router.); disconnect from something (My laptop keeps disconnecting from the network.)

Similar words: cut off, sever

Opposites: connect

Common phrases: disconnect a call, disconnect from something, disconnect the cable

To separate an electrical device from its power supply.

• Disconnect the heater before moving it.
• She disconnected the battery before repairing the car.
• Have you disconnected the machine from the mains?

How to use it: disconnect something from something (Disconnect the appliance from the power supply before cleaning it.)

Similar words: unplug

Opposites: connect

Common phrases: disconnect the power, disconnect an appliance, disconnect the battery

To stop feeling involved with other people or with what is happening around you.

• When stressed, she tends to disconnect emotionally.
• He disconnected from everyone around him.
• I sometimes disconnect from my surroundings when I feel overwhelmed.

How to use it: disconnect from someone/something (He began to disconnect from his friends after the loss.)

Similar words: withdraw, detach

Opposites: engage

Common phrases: disconnect from others, disconnect emotionally, disconnect from reality

A difference between things that should fit together or agree.

• There is a clear disconnect between theory and practice.
• She noticed a disconnect between prices and quality.
• The survey revealed a growing disconnect between managers and staff.

How to use it: disconnect between A and B (There is a disconnect between their promises and their actions.)

Similar words: mismatch, gap, discrepancy

Opposites: agreement

Common phrases: a clear disconnect, disconnect between something, a growing disconnect

A switch that cuts off power to part of an electrical system.

• Turn off the main disconnect.
• The electrician installed a disconnect beside the motor.
• This disconnect isolates the circuit during maintenance.

Similar words: isolator, disconnect switch

Common phrases: main disconnect, disconnect switch, electrical disconnect