Omit

To intentionally leave out or exclude something, either a word, phrase, item, person, or event, from a larger whole. This can be done for various reasons, such as to simplify information, to avoid controversy, or to maintain privacy. The omitted element is typically deemed unnecessary or irrelevant in the given context. Omission implies a conscious decision and can significantly alter the meaning or impact of the surrounding content. The act of omitting directly influences the completeness of a set or narrative, highlighting the importance of what is retained in comparison to what is excluded.

Omit meaning with examples

• The editor decided to Omit the controversial section from the article to avoid inciting a negative reaction from readers. This strategic omission was intended to streamline the narrative and maintain a neutral tone, emphasizing the core message of the piece. The writer had spent hours perfecting the section, but this decision was made because of the topic's sensitivity.
• In summarizing the meeting minutes, the secretary chose to Omit minor details of a side discussion that was tangential to the main agenda. Her omission simplified the report, ensuring focus on the main points, such as action items and important decisions. This allowed people to quickly understand the results of the meeting.
• During her autobiography, the author elected to Omit her previous husband's name, to protect his privacy and her children's peace. This deliberate omission highlighted her intention to distance herself from a difficult period in her life while keeping a focus on her present. She focused on her growth, as it was relevant to her current life.
• When translating the novel, the translator was forced to Omit certain cultural references that were untranslatable to the destination language. Because the cultures did not match, the translator wanted to make it accessible to all. Omission was a necessary compromise to maintain the narrative's core essence.
• The instructions to the game specifically said 'Omit steps 2 and 5' which allows users to have the product in their hands faster. The reason they omitted the steps was that those steps were considered optional or redundant depending on the specific needs of the person.