Do Away with Something vs. Get Rid of Something

Attribute	Do Away with Something	Get Rid of Something
Definition	To eliminate or remove something completely	To dispose of or discard something
Formality	More formal	Less formal
Usage	Can be used in formal writing or speech	Commonly used in everyday conversation
Intensity	May imply a more deliberate or systematic action	May imply a simpler or quicker action

Definition

When looking at the attributes of "do away with something" and "get rid of something," it is important to first understand the definitions of these phrases. "Do away with something" means to eliminate or remove something completely. On the other hand, "get rid of something" also means to eliminate or dispose of something, but it may imply a more immediate or urgent action.

Usage

Both phrases are commonly used in everyday language to express the act of removing or disposing of something. However, "do away with something" is often used in a more formal or professional context, while "get rid of something" is more casual and colloquial. For example, a business report may recommend "doing away with outdated practices," while a friend may suggest "getting rid of old clothes."

Connotation

The choice between "do away with something" and "get rid of something" can also depend on the connotation or tone that the speaker wants to convey. "Do away with something" may imply a more deliberate or strategic approach to eliminating something, while "get rid of something" may suggest a more urgent or immediate need to dispose of something. The connotation of each phrase can influence how the action is perceived by others.

Formality

As mentioned earlier, "do away with something" is generally considered more formal than "get rid of something." This difference in formality can impact the appropriateness of using each phrase in different contexts. For example, in a professional setting, it may be more appropriate to use "do away with something" when discussing the elimination of a policy or procedure. On the other hand, in a casual conversation, "get rid of something" may be more commonly used to talk about decluttering a home.

Emphasis

Another factor to consider when choosing between "do away with something" and "get rid of something" is the emphasis placed on the action of elimination. "Do away with something" may emphasize the process or method of removing something, while "get rid of something" may focus more on the end result of disposing of something. The choice of phrase can impact how the action is perceived by the listener and the importance placed on the act of elimination.

Intent

When deciding between "do away with something" and "get rid of something," it is important to consider the intent behind the action of elimination. "Do away with something" may suggest a more intentional or planned approach to removing something, while "get rid of something" may imply a more spontaneous or immediate need to dispose of something. Understanding the intent behind the action can help determine which phrase is more appropriate in a given situation.

Examples

• She decided to do away with all the old furniture in her house and start fresh with new pieces.
• He needed to get rid of the clutter in his garage before he could park his car inside.
• The company made the decision to do away with its traditional dress code in favor of a more casual attire policy.
• After years of collecting dust, she finally got rid of the old books that were taking up space on her shelves.