De-finance

To withdraw or reduce financial support from a particular entity, activity, or initiative. This action often involves cutting off or diminishing the flow of funds, resources, or investments. The goal of de-financing can vary widely, from promoting fiscal responsibility and redirecting resources to other priorities, to exerting pressure or expressing disapproval of the entity being de-financed. De-financing is often employed as a strategic tool to bring about change, influence behavior, or curtail operations.

De-finance meaning with examples

• The city council voted to de-finance the public art project due to budget constraints and concerns over the project's cost. The mayor argued that resources needed to be allocated elsewhere. This decision caused an immediate halt to project development and created conflict among members of the public.
• Activist groups campaigned to de-finance fossil fuel companies, encouraging investors to divest their holdings in an effort to combat climate change. The campaign argued that by withdrawing financial backing, these companies would be forced to transition toward greener practices, making a positive impact on future environmental goals. This approach drew praise and criticism.
• Following an investigation, the government decided to de-finance a non-profit organization accused of mismanagement of funds. This action was taken to ensure accountability and maintain public trust, which ultimately led to the organization's shutdown and investigation.
• The university administration proposed to de-finance several underperforming academic departments, redirecting funds to STEM fields. This decision aimed to improve the school's ranking by investing in areas of higher enrollment and greater potential for research grants, and to create larger returns.
• After repeated instances of misconduct, the sports league voted to de-finance a team by revoking its funding. This was a harsh punishment designed to discourage future unethical behavior within the league, and to show a strong commitment to ethical standards. The action sent a clear message.