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do without

to manage in the absence of

In Phrasal Verbs

In more detail

1. (verb) to manage or cope without something that you need or want; to go without something

2. (verb) to not use something; to avoid using something

Examples

• 1. We can do without electricity for a few hours during the power outage.
• 2. I decided to do without sugar in my coffee to reduce calories.

How to use do without

Do without is a phrasal verb used to describe getting along despite lacking something desired or needed, often implying resignation or necessity. It emphasizes managing adequately in a difficult situation, distinct from similar terms like dispense with, which is more formal and deliberate. The expression frequently appears in negative constructions (can't do without, couldn't do without) to stress dependence on something.

Common phrases

• do without electricity
• do without sleep
• do without help
• can't do without
• do without complaint

Synonyms

go without · manage without · get by without · dispense with · forgo

Word family

doing without

A common mistake

Learners sometimes add an extra preposition or object, saying 'do without of' or omitting the object entirely when one is implied contextually, rather than understanding it as a complete phrasal verb that can stand alone in negatives.

Nearby in Phrasal Verbs

chip in, come around, cut out, fall through, gear up, get around

Keep going

How to remember the words you read · Spaced repetition, explained