dispense

To give out something to people, often from a machine or in measured amounts.

• This machine dispenses hot drinks.
• Volunteers dispensed food to the families.
• The sensor dispenses soap when you move your hand underneath.

How to use it: dispense something to someone (The charity dispenses supplies to people in need.)

Similar words: give out, distribute, issue

Common phrases: dispense cash, dispense advice, dispense something to someone

To stop using something or decide it is unnecessary.

• Let’s dispense with introductions.
• They dispensed with the usual paperwork.
• Can we dispense with this lengthy ceremony?

How to use it: dispense with something (We can dispense with the formal speeches today.)

Similar words: do without, drop, abandon

Common phrases: dispense with something, dispense with formalities

To prepare and supply medicine, usually following a doctor’s instructions.

• The pharmacist dispensed my medicine.
• This pharmacy dispenses prescriptions until nine.
• Only trained staff may dispense these drugs.

How to use it: dispense something to someone (The pharmacist dispensed the tablets to the patient.)

Similar words: supply

Common phrases: dispense medicine, dispense a prescription, dispense tablets

To put laws or rules into practice, or give people the treatment they deserve.

• The judge must dispense justice fairly.
• The ruler claimed to dispense mercy to his enemies.
• Courts dispensed punishment according to the law.

Similar words: administer, apply

Common phrases: dispense justice, dispense mercy, dispense punishment