Liquidate

Liquidate primarily means to convert assets into cash, often to pay off debts or to settle financial obligations. It can also refer to the termination of a business or the closure of an operation, including the selling off of all its assets. In a more severe context, it can mean to eliminate, usually through killing, individuals or groups, often with violent or unjust means. The process emphasizes turning something into its equivalent in cash or ending a business operation by converting the assets to cash and then distributing the money among the creditors or owners.

Liquidate meaning with examples

• The company, facing mounting debts, was forced to liquidate its holdings of real estate and equipment to pay its creditors. The liquidation process, while difficult, allowed the company to avoid declaring complete bankruptcy. The process resulted in all the assets being converted to cash.
• The investment firm decided to liquidate its position in the volatile tech stock, taking a small loss to avoid further financial risk. Realizing the asset was losing value quickly, it was important to make a quick decision on how to manage the funds.
• After the war, the government began to liquidate the assets of the defeated enemy, distributing the funds to the affected families. The distribution of the funds helped families that needed assistance.
• The ruthless dictator ordered his political opponents to be liquidated, eliminating any perceived threats to his power. His action was a sign of fear and paranoia from losing his position.