Thesaurus

alienate

Q: How does the verb 'alienate' contrast with its synonyms?

The words disaffect and estrange are common synonyms of alienate . While all three words mean "to cause one to break a bond of affection or loyalty," alienate may or may not suggest separation but always implies loss of affection or interest. // managed to alienate all his coworkers

Q: When is it sensible to use 'disaffect' instead of 'alienate'?

The meanings of disaffect and alienate largely overlap; however, disaffect refers especially to those from whom loyalty is expected and stresses the effects (such as rebellion or discontent) of alienation without actual separation. // troops disaffected by hunger

Q: In what contexts can 'estrange' take the place of 'alienate'?

Although the words estrange and alienate have much in common, estrange implies the development of indifference or hostility with consequent separation or divorcement. // his estranged wife

verb

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Synonyms & Antonyms of alienate

1 to cause to change from friendly or loving to unfriendly or uncaring

her changed position on the issue surprised and alienated many of her supporters

Synonyms for alienate

Words Related to alienate

Near Antonyms for alienate

endear,
ingratiate

Antonyms for alienate

reconcile

2 to give over the legal possession or ownership of

landowners have a right to alienate their right of ownership—in other words, they can sell the land if they want to

Synonyms for alienate

Words Related to alienate

lease,
lend,
let
[chiefly British],
loan,
rent

Phrases Synonymous with alienate

dispose of

Near Antonyms for alienate

expropriate

Frequently Asked Questions About alienate

How does the verb alienate contrast with its synonyms?

The words disaffect and estrange are common synonyms of alienate. While all three words mean "to cause one to break a bond of affection or loyalty," alienate may or may not suggest separation but always implies loss of affection or interest.

managed to alienate all his coworkers

When is it sensible to use disaffect instead of alienate?

The meanings of disaffect and alienate largely overlap; however, disaffect refers especially to those from whom loyalty is expected and stresses the effects (such as rebellion or discontent) of alienation without actual separation.

troops disaffected by hunger

In what contexts can estrange take the place of alienate?

Although the words estrange and alienate have much in common, estrange implies the development of indifference or hostility with consequent separation or divorcement.

his estranged wife