Reading Theme:
Decouple: Meaning, Examples, and How to Use It (2 meaning)
Meaning 1：separate from (decouple)
decouple
/diːˈkʌpəl/
v.
To separate two things that were previously connected, so that one can change without affecting the other.
separate from
➕
/ˈsɛpəreɪt frʌm/
v.
To break the connection between two things so that they can change independently.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Root Explanation
From Latin 'dis-' (apart) and 'copula' (bond).
💡 Mnemonic
De- means 'away', couple means 'link'. Picture pulling two linked chains apart.
📖 Example
The new policy aims to decouple economic growth from environmental damage, meaning we can have more jobs and cleaner air at the same time.
The new policy aims to decouple economic growth from environmental damage, meaning we can have more jobs and cleaner air at the same time.
🔗 Collocations
decouple A from B – Separate one entity from another to allow independent operation
decouple growth from emissions – Reduce the link between economic growth and pollution
decouple software components – Make software modules independent so changes in one do not affect others
🔄 Synonyms
disconnect (v.) – To break the connection between two things
detach (v.) – To separate something from a larger object
dissociate (v.) – To cause something to become separate from something else
🚫 Antonyms
🌱 Derivatives
decoupling (n.) – The process of separating things
decoupler (n.) – A device or agent that separates things
decoupled (adj.) – Separated from something else
📖 Cultural Story
Originally used in engineering for mechanical separation; later adopted in economics and policy to describe breaking harmful linkages.
Meaning 2：disconnect physically (decouple)
decouple
/diːˈkʌpəl/
v.
To physically disconnect two parts or pieces of equipment that are joined together.
disconnect physically
➕
/ˌdɪskəˈnɛkt ˈfɪzɪkli/
v.
To physically separate two parts or pieces of equipment that are joined together.
📘 Details & Usage
📖 Example
At the end of the line, the driver will decouple the locomotive from the carriages so it can prepare for the return journey.
At the end of the line, the driver will decouple the locomotive from the carriages so it can prepare for the return journey.
🔗 Collocations
decouple the cars – Unhook train carriages from each other
decouple the motor – Disconnect a motor from a machine
decouple the pipes – Separate joined pipes
🔄 Synonyms
uncouple (v.) – To disconnect two things, especially train carriages
disconnect (v.) – To break the physical connection between parts
detach (v.) – To separate something that is attached
🚫 Antonyms
🌱 Derivatives
decoupler (n.) – A device used to disconnect parts
decoupling (n.) – The act of physically separating
decoupled (adj.) – Physically separated
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