do without

British  

verb

1. to forgo; manage without

   I can't do without cigarettes

2. not to require (uncalled-for comments or advice)

   we can do without your criticisms thank you

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do without Idioms  

1. Manage in spite of being without something. For example, They will just have to do without a vacation this year, or There was no telephone in the cabin, but we soon learned to do without. [Early 1700s]

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Example Sentences

She thinks the US policy of export controls might have backfired: Chinese developers had to make do without the powerful chips, forcing them to be creative.

From BBC • Apr. 7, 2026

I travel often, usually for longer stretches, but I’ve learned that some cities are especially good at delivering in a short window: great food, easy momentum, and plenty to do without overplanning.

From Salon • Mar. 31, 2026

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

“I’d rather do without bread than my estradiol patch,” Polo said.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 7, 2026

I could spend the summer practicing baking to get ready, which would give me something to do without Trevor.

From "From the Desk of Zoe Washington" by Janae Marks

Related Words

• endure
• forgo