desert someone

/dɪˈzɜːrt sʌmˈwʌn/
phrasal verbIntermediate abandon someonephrasal verb
informal

To abandon someone, especially a spouse or partner, often without warning or support.

She felt devastated when her husband deserted her during their toughest times.

She was heartbroken when her husband left her without support.

Many soldiers deserted their posts during the war.

Many soldiers abandoned their duties during the war.

💡

This phrase often carries a negative connotation, implying betrayal or lack of loyalty.

Collocations

desert a postto abandon a duty or positiondesert a causeto abandon a belief or mission

Related Phrases

desert someone in their time of needphrase
to abandon someone when they need help the most

💡Pro Tip

Context Matters

Use 'desert someone' carefully, as it implies a strong sense of betrayal or abandonment.

Gold Rule

Avoid Misuse

Do not use 'desert' to mean 'leave' in a neutral context; it implies abandonment.

📖Word Origin

From Middle English 'deserten,' meaning to abandon or leave behind, derived from Old French 'deserter.'

📝Usage Notes

This phrase is often used in emotional or legal contexts, such as divorce or military desertion.

Word Breakdown

desert
to abandon
verb
+
someone
a person
object
English Dictionary