Abolish

To formally put an end to a system, practice, or institution; to nullify or invalidate; to completely do away with something, often something that has been established for a long time. The act of abolishing typically involves a deliberate, often legal, action taken by a governing body or other authority. It implies a strong intention to eradicate something deemed undesirable, unjust, or outdated. The consequences of abolishing can be significant, ranging from social and economic upheaval to positive transformations and the advancement of human rights or progress. Abolition signifies a firm commitment to change and a rejection of the status quo. It is not a light term, it carries the weight of legal, social, and political meaning.

Abolish meaning with examples

• The government decided to abolish the mandatory death penalty for drug-related offenses, recognizing its ineffectiveness and severity. This decision sparked heated debates, but ultimately, the aim was to align the legal system with evolving human rights standards. The process of abolishing involved parliamentary debates, legal revisions, and the implementation of alternative sentencing guidelines. They hoped to reform the justice system and improve outcomes.
• Following years of tireless campaigning, activists finally succeeded in abolishing child labor laws. They used protests, documentaries, and lobbying to highlight the exploitation of children in factories. The abolishing of child labour was a pivotal moment in social justice, leading to legislation enforcing minimum working ages and improving education and well-being. It was a monumental victory for human dignity.
• The new CEO announced plans to abolish the outdated paper-based filing system and replace it with a modern digital system. The decision aimed at improving efficiency, reducing costs, and promoting environmental sustainability. The transition will be a significant undertaking, involving training employees on new software and transferring all existing records into a new database, but will modernize processes.
• With the rise of social media and online communication, some predicted that libraries, as institutions, might eventually be abolished. However, libraries adapted to the changing world, incorporating digital resources and offering diverse services. The perceived threat led to a transformation in the use of libraries and a renewed focus on their central role in the community.
• Historians studying the French Revolution often discuss the period during which the monarchy was abolished. This action was a decisive turning point, signaling the end of the old regime and the establishment of a republic. The abolishment brought about a major shift in political power and fundamentally changed the social order. It marked a violent and chaotic transition.