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

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

Related Words

• endure
• forgo