Enable/disable

To **enable** something means to provide someone or something with the means, opportunity, or power to do something. It implies facilitating action or function. To **disable** something is the opposite: to prevent or restrict someone or something from functioning normally. It is to deactivate or incapacitate, often by rendering something unusable or inoperative. The 'enable/disable' action can apply to objects, features, or individuals, changing their state of functionality or accessibility. This is an extremely useful pair of words in many areas, including technology, law, and medicine. It can be as simple as flipping a switch or writing a line of code.

Enable/disable meaning with examples

• The new software update will **enable** users to access advanced features. This functionality update is a much-requested feature by our customers, we have therefore been able to integrate and ensure its ease of use. If anything, this update will offer our clients the freedom of choice when it comes to usage. We are therefore certain that these changes will prove positive.
• The mechanic was able to **enable** the car's engine after replacing the faulty starter. By identifying and fixing the issue, he was able to give the customer the ability to restart his car and get back to the business of driving. The process was a lengthy one but resulted in a satisfactory outcome, leaving all parties relieved.
• The government decided to **disable** the old security system due to increasing vulnerabilities. Because it proved unsafe and costly, the government decided to cease its usage. The transition to the replacement was a smooth one, allowing citizens to use the system without any interferences and leaving them with the peace of mind needed.
• The doctor was able to **enable** the patient to walk again after a long period of physical therapy. A painful process which was also long, and often a burden, the patient was able to get over their pain and return to good health, allowing them to be back on their feet in no time at all.
• The admin was able to **disable** user accounts that had not been active for a certain period of time. To save resources and manage access, the admin was able to ensure the smooth running of the system. The admin then sent a message to the clients in question letting them know what had happened, this was met with a surprisingly positive reception.