uncouple

/'ʌn'kʌpt/

Friendly

Word: Uncouple

Part of Speech: Verb

Definition: To uncouple means to disconnect or separate two things that were once joined or connected. This term is often used in contexts like trains, where cars are joined together, or in relationships, where two people are no longer together.

Usage Instructions:

• When to use: Use "uncouple" when you want to express the action of separating two connected items or entities.
• Who can use it: Anyone can use "uncouple" in both formal and informal situations, depending on the context.

Example Sentence:

• "The train conductor had to uncouple the last car from the rest of the train."

Advanced Usage:

• In engineering or mechanics, "uncouple" can refer to separating parts of machines or systems that are interdependent.
• In psychology, "uncoupling" can refer to the process of two people ending a relationship.

Word Variants:

• Uncoupling (noun): The act of uncoupling. Example: "The uncoupling of the two systems was necessary for repairs."
• Uncoupled (adjective): Describes something that has been separated. Example: "The uncoupled parts of the machine were laid out for inspection."

Different Meanings:

1. Literal Meaning: Physically disconnecting two objects (e.g., train cars, mechanical parts).
2. Figurative Meaning: Ending a relationship or partnership (e.g., a couple deciding to split up).

Synonyms:

• Disconnect
• Separate
• Detach
• Divide

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

• While "uncouple" is a specific term, you might encounter related phrasal verbs such as:
  • Break up: To end a romantic relationship.
  • Split up: To separate or divide.

Academic

Verb

1. disconnect or separate
   • uncouple the hounds

Synonyms

• decouple