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Definition of jettison

To discard or get rid of something, often in a hasty or deliberate manner, in order to lighten a load, reduce excess, or eliminate unwanted elements.
"The politician was forced to jettison his controversial policy."

Detailed Meaning of Jettison

This action typically involves throwing or ejecting the object or idea away, especially in situations where it is deemed unnecessary, burdensome, or detrimental. Metaphorically, 'jettison' can also be used to describe the process of letting go of concepts, beliefs, or practices that no longer serve a purpose or are hindering progress, much like a ship shedding ballast to stay afloat or an aircraft ejecting cargo to improve its maneuverability. In essence, 'jettison' conveys the notion of deliberate removal to improve efficiency, functionality, or overall well-being.

Example Sentences for Jettison

1. When the ship started sinking, the crew had to jettison the cargo to stay afloat.
2. To make the hot air balloon rise, we had to jettison some ballast.
3. In a crisis, it's important to jettison any non-essential activities to focus on the most important tasks.
4. To achieve your goals, you may need to jettison old habits that are holding you back.
5. When starting a new project, it's important to jettison any preconceived notions and approach it with an open mind.
6. To make room for new opportunities, you may need to jettison some old commitments.

Origin and Etymology of Jettison

The verb 'jettison' has its etymological roots in the nautical world. It can be traced back to the Old Italian word 'getizzone,' which referred to a throwing overboard of goods to lighten a ship's load during times of distress. This term entered English through the French word 'jetter' and became 'jettison,' signifying the deliberate act of discarding or getting rid of something, often in a hasty or calculated manner, to reduce excess weight, improve balance, or eliminate unwanted elements. 'Jettison' is a term that transcends its maritime origins and is now used more broadly, symbolizing the strategic decision to let go of what is deemed non-essential or burdensome in order to navigate challenges and streamline processes, both in literal and metaphorical contexts.

Quiz Question - Test Your Understanding

Find the correct meaning of the verb jettison:

hoard

keep

discard

retain

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Correct!

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More Usage Examples of Jettison

1. In order to move forward, you may need to jettison past grievances and focus on the future.
2. To achieve personal growth, it's important to jettison negative self-talk and adopt a positive mindset.
3. When embarking on a new journey, it's important to jettison any excess baggage that might hold you back.
4. To improve your physical health, you may need to jettison unhealthy eating habits and adopt a balanced diet.
5. In order to succeed, you may need to jettison any doubts and approach the task with confidence.
6. To create a successful business, you may need to jettison any ineffective strategies and adopt new ones.
7. When working on a team, it's important to jettison any ego and focus on the collective goal.
8. To achieve financial freedom, you may need to jettison any unnecessary expenses and focus on saving and investing.
9. In order to find happiness, you may need to jettison any toxic relationships and surround yourself with positive people.
10. To improve your mental health, it's important to jettison negative thoughts and focus on the positive.
11. When faced with a difficult decision, it's important to jettison any fear and approach it with a clear mind.
12. To achieve success, it's important to jettison any distractions and stay focused on your goals.
13. When striving for excellence, it's important to jettison any mediocrity and continually push yourself to do better.
14. To live a fulfilling life, it's important to jettison any regrets and focus on making the most of the present moment.
15. The spaceship had to jettison extra fuel to achieve liftoff.
16. To save the sinking ship, they had to jettison some cargo.
17. The company decided to jettison outdated technology.
18. Desperate to survive, they had to jettison unnecessary supplies.
19. The crew had to jettison the damaged aircraft components.
20. The team had to jettison their original strategy for a new one.
21. To simplify her life, she decided to jettison non-essential possessions.
22. In the emergency, they had to jettison the excess baggage.
23. The pilot had to jettison the malfunctioning engine.
24. To streamline operations, they had to jettison redundant staff.