do without
Britishverb
-
to forgo; manage without
I can't do without cigarettes
-
not to require (uncalled-for comments or advice)
we can do without your criticisms thank you
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
There are concerns that an extended conflict could result in shortages while high prices could force some farmers to do without.
From Barron's • Mar. 25, 2026
"While it's exciting and curious to see what an AI agent can do without any security guardrails, this level of access is also extremely insecure," he said.
From BBC • Feb. 12, 2026
And Smith-Njigba managed to do without any of the extraordinary characteristics that tend to define the greats at his position.
From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 5, 2026
A no-spend week nudges me toward living out that old Depression-era saying my grandmother liked enough to have embroidered on a pillow: Use it up, wear it out, make it do, or do without.
From Salon • Jan. 11, 2026
“If Sam and I have to do without, then so do you!”
From "Free Lunch" by Rex Ogle
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Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023
Idioms from The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary copyright © 2002, 2001, 1995 by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company. Published by Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing Company.