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Out of circulation Meaning in English

expression

OWT uhv SUR-kyuh-LAY-shuhn
OWT ov sur-kyuh-LAY-shuhn

Definition

Not being used, available, or active anymore. It can refer to something like money or someone who is not socially active or not taking part in usual activities.

Usage & Nuances

Often used for money (coins, bills) no longer valid, but also for people temporarily avoiding social contact or for things withdrawn from use. Informal; 'out of circulation' about a person can mean unavailable (e.g., in a relationship, ill, or busy). Not the same as 'out of stock' (products) or 'out of order' (machines).

Example Sentences

These coins are out of circulation now.

basic

He has been out of circulation since his surgery.

basic

This book was out of circulation for years.

basic

Sorry, I'm kind of out of circulation these days—too much work!

natural

After their breakup, she wanted to stay out of circulation for a while.

natural

That model of phone has been out of circulation since last year.

natural