Cannibalize Meaning in English
word
Definition
To take parts from something to use them in another thing, or for one product to reduce the sales or success of another product in the same company.
Usage & Nuances
'Cannibalize' is formal/neutral and common in business and technical contexts. It can mean physically taking parts for reuse ('cannibalize old machines'), or describe sales competition within a company ('new product cannibalizes sales'). Don't confuse with literal eating—this is mostly metaphorical outside biology.
Example Sentences
We had to cannibalize an old computer to fix the new one.
basic
The company worries the new product will cannibalize sales of the old one.
basic
Engineers often cannibalize parts from broken machines.
basic
Their latest smartphone is starting to cannibalize sales from their mid-range models.
natural
"Should we really cannibalize the old project, or just buy new parts?"
natural
If we launch this service now, it could cannibalize our existing customer base.
natural