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

---

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]

---

Example Sentences

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

Harrison said her team could "do without this" taking up the time of what is a volunteer-led historical society, before admitting she had "no idea" of potential legal routes to take as a result.

From BBC • Feb. 18, 2026

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

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 7, 2026

“Then my friends will just have to make do without us.”

From "American Gods" by Neil Gaiman

Related Words

• endure
• forgo