ditch
word
Definition
A ditch is a long, narrow hole in the ground, often made to carry water or mark the side of a road or field. As a verb, it can also mean to leave someone unexpectedly or to get rid of something.
Usage & Nuances
Common in both literal and informal spoken English. Literal collocations include 'roadside ditch' and 'drainage ditch'. As a verb, 'ditch someone' is informal and can sound rude or hurtful; 'ditch something' often means to throw away, abandon, or stop using it. Also appears in emergency contexts like 'ditch a plane' (make an emergency landing on water).
Example Sentences
There is a ditch beside the road.
basic
She ditched her old shoes.
basic
The car slid into a ditch after the rain.
basic
He ditched me at the last minute and went out with his friends.
natural
Let's ditch this plan and do something easier.
natural
We ditched cable years ago and only use streaming now.
natural