erase

USAGE SUMMARY

The word 'erase' is correct and usable in written English.
You would use it to describe the action of removing information from a surface. Example sentence: I used a damp cloth to erase the chalkboard.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Sometimes only another economic calamity can erase the memory of the one before.

The Guardian - Opinion

"You can delete a billboard image but you can't erase betrayal.

The Guardian

On a number of fronts, from gay rights to financial regulation and from incarceration to international trade, they would like to reverse if not erase some of the central planks of his presidency.

The Guardian - Opinion

But memories of her Parisian triumphs, last year over Simona Halep and three years ago beating Sara Errani, partly erase the pain of serial disappointment against the American.

The Guardian - Sport

"With the passing of this, I hope it will erase the ignorance and help people understand that trans kids are just looking for equal opportunities".

The Guardian

However, for the Earthquakes to erase the disappointment of last season's failure to make the playoffs, it will be up to the spine of the team to deliver.

The Guardian - Sport

"Most of my friends died from Aids-related illnesses," says Pfahler. "It was like a horror movie, watching people with angina, their bodies blowing up, people wearing germ jumpsuits… You can't ever erase these intense images from your eyes.

The Guardian - Music

Thanks to the Higher Education Act, the Department of Education DOEE) has the discretionary power to erase all federal student debt associated with Corinthian schools, and it doesn't need permission from a dysfunctional Congress to do so.

The Guardian - Opinion

More worryingly, scientists at the University of California have discovered a method of using light to form, erase and then restore memories in rats.

The Guardian - Film

"Several jurisdictions have made or are considering schemes to erase convictions for consensual homosexual acts," Corbell said.

The Guardian

I was also moved by the story because it touchingly describes the loving relationship between the two central characters, showcasing that neither space nor time can erase love.

The Guardian - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "erase" in technical contexts, ensure it accurately reflects the method of data removal. For example, distinguishing between overwriting data and physically destroying storage media is crucial for clarity.

Common error

Don't assume that "erasing" data guarantees complete and irreversible removal. In digital contexts, data can often be recovered with specialized tools, so use stronger methods when permanent deletion is required.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "erase" is as a transitive verb, indicating an action performed on an object to remove or obliterate it. Ludwig provides numerous examples illustrating this usage.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

34%

Formal & Business

33%

Science

33%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The word "erase" functions as a verb, signifying the act of removing or obliterating something. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it's grammatically sound and commonly used in various contexts. The analysis of usage patterns reveals its frequent application in news, formal business settings, and scientific discussions. When aiming for alternative expressions, consider options like "wipe out" or "delete", each carrying nuances suitable for specific scenarios. Remember, while "erase" implies removal, ensuring complete data removal in digital contexts requires more robust methods. Finally, "erase" is a versatile word suitable for many contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

wipe out

Implies complete destruction or obliteration, often used in a more forceful or irreversible context.

delete

Specifically refers to removing digital data or information, often in a controlled manner.

obliterate

Suggests a complete and thorough removal, leaving no trace behind.

remove

A general term for taking something away, applicable in various contexts.

expunge

Implies the formal removal of something, often from a record or official document.

cancel

Suggests voiding or invalidating something, such as an appointment or subscription.

efface

Means to make indistinct or to rub out; often used in contexts of memories or impressions.

nullify

Means to make legally void or ineffective.

invalidate

Means to make something not valid, especially after it had been valid.

clear

To remove obstructions or unwanted items from a space or surface.

FAQs

How to use "erase" in a sentence?

You can use "erase" to describe the act of removing something, such as "I need to erase the whiteboard" or "Time cannot "erase the memories"".

What can I say instead of "erase"?

You can use alternatives like "delete", "wipe out", or "obliterate" depending on the context.

Which is correct, "erase the data" or "delete the data"?

Both "erase the data" and "delete the data" are correct. "Delete" is more commonly used in digital contexts, while "erase" can be used more broadly.

What's the difference between "erase" and "remove"?

"Erase" implies a more complete or thorough removal, often leaving no trace, while "remove" simply means to take something away.