disappear
When something disappears, you can't see it anymore.
It goes away, and you don't know where it is.
Imagine a magic trick where a rabbit disappears from a hat.
One moment it's there, and then it's gone!
Clouds can also disappear when the sun comes out.
When something disappears, it ceases to be perceptible or present, often gradually or without explanation. This can refer to a physical object vanishing from sight, an abstract concept fading from memory, or even a species becoming extinct. The act implies a transition from a state of existence or visibility to one of non-existence or invisibility. It's a fundamental concept describing the cessation of presence.
§ How to use it in a sentence — grammar, prepositions
- Grammar
The verb "disappear" is an intransitive verb, which means it doesn't take a direct object. You don't "disappear something"; rather, something "disappears" on its own. It's often used with adverbs or prepositional phrases to indicate where, when, or how something disappears.
It can be used in various tenses:
- Present Simple: For actions that happen regularly or are generally true.
The sun disappears behind the clouds.
- Present Continuous: For actions happening now.
The magician's rabbit is disappearing from the hat!
- Past Simple: For actions completed in the past.
My keys disappeared from the table.
- Present Perfect: For actions that started in the past and have an effect on the present.
The mysterious ship has disappeared.
- Common Prepositions
"Disappear" is often followed by prepositions that specify location or direction.
- Disappear behind: To go out of sight because something is in the way.
The cat disappeared behind the sofa.
- Disappear into: To go inside something and be no longer visible.
The tiny mouse disappeared into a hole in the wall.
- Disappear from: To leave a place.
The money disappeared from my wallet.
- Disappear without a trace: A common idiom meaning to vanish completely, leaving no evidence.
The ancient civilization disappeared without a trace.
- Disappear into thin air: Another idiom meaning to vanish suddenly and completely, often mysteriously.
The ghost just disappeared into thin air!
§ More Examples
The stars began to disappear as the sun rose.
My little brother loves to hide and disappear from view.
The fog will disappear by midday.
She watched her friend disappear down the street.
The rabbit quickly disappeared into its burrow.
The footprints on the sand disappeared with the tide.
Sometimes, my motivation just disappears when I have a lot of work.
He saw the car disappear around the bend in the road.
The small boat disappeared below the horizon.
The memory of the dream quickly disappeared when I woke up.
§ Definition
- Verb
- To stop being visible; to vanish from sight.
The word "disappear" is an everyday verb that describes something ceasing to be seen. It's a common word you'll encounter in various contexts, from casual conversations to more formal settings like news reports. Understanding its usage is key to comprehending many spoken and written English sentences.
§ Where You Might Hear "Disappear"
You'll hear and use "disappear" in many situations. Here are a few common ones:
- Everyday Conversations: When you're talking about things getting lost, people leaving, or objects going out of sight.
- Movies and Books: Often used to describe characters vanishing, objects disappearing magically, or clues disappearing in a mystery.
- News Reports: When reporting on missing people, objects that have been lost, or even natural phenomena fading away.
- Work and School: Less common in formal academic or professional settings unless discussing specific events like data loss or objects being misplaced.
§ Examples in Context
My keys always seem to disappear when I'm in a hurry.
This example shows a common, everyday use where an object is misplaced and cannot be found.
The magician made the rabbit disappear from the hat.
Here, "disappear" refers to an intentional act of making something invisible, often as part of an illusion.
After the rain, the rainbow began to disappear slowly.
This sentence illustrates a natural phenomenon fading away. It's not an active agent making it disappear, but rather a gradual process.
The old traditions started to disappear as new technologies emerged.
This is an example of the figurative use of "disappear," where traditions are no longer practiced or become less common.
The small boat seemed to disappear behind the large waves.
Here, the boat is temporarily hidden from view, giving the impression that it has vanished.
§ Related Words and Phrases
- Vanish: A synonym for "disappear," often implying a sudden or mysterious departure.
- Fade away: Suggests a gradual disappearance.
- Be lost: Similar in meaning, especially when referring to objects.
- Go missing: Commonly used for people or important items that cannot be found.
- Melt away: Can be used figuratively for problems or feelings that gradually cease to exist.
Understanding these related terms will help you express different nuances of something ceasing to be visible or present. While "disappear" is a good general term, these alternatives can add more precision to your communication.
§ Mistakes people make with this word
The word "disappear" is a common verb, but even at an A2 level, learners can sometimes make subtle mistakes in its usage. Understanding these pitfalls can help you use the word more naturally and accurately.
§ 1. Using an unnecessary object
One of the most frequent mistakes is trying to use "disappear" with a direct object. "Disappear" is an intransitive verb, meaning it doesn't take a direct object. Something disappears on its own; you don't "disappear something."
The magician made the rabbit disappear.
This sentence is correct because "the rabbit" is the subject of "disappear" in the infinitive phrase, not a direct object of "disappear" itself. The mistake happens when learners try to phrase it like this:
Incorrect: The magician
disappearedthe rabbit.
§ 2. Confusing "disappear" with "lose"
While both words can relate to something no longer being present, their meanings are distinct. "Disappear" means to stop being visible or to vanish. "Lose" means to no longer have something, often due to misplacement or being deprived of it.
My keys disappeared from the table.
This suggests the keys vanished on their own. Now consider:
I lost my keys.
This means I don't know where they are because I misplaced them. Using "disappear" instead of "lose" can sound unusual:
Incorrect: I
disappearedmy keys.
§ 3. Incorrect tense usage in certain contexts
"Disappear" is a regular verb and its past tense is "disappeared." However, sometimes learners might overthink its usage with auxiliary verbs, especially when describing a past event that has a present result.
The cat disappeared yesterday.
This is correct simple past. If the cat is still missing, you might use the present perfect:
The cat has disappeared.
A common mistake might be to use an incorrect auxiliary or an awkward phrasing when trying to convey the continuous nature of something missing.
- Incorrect example
- The cat is disappeared.
While "is gone" is common, "is disappeared" is not standard English for an active vanishing. The verb "disappear" describes the action itself.
§ 4. Misusing synonyms or related words
Sometimes learners might use words like "vanish" or "fade" interchangeably without understanding the subtle differences. While "vanish" is a very close synonym to "disappear," "fade" implies a gradual loss of visibility or strength.
- Definition: Vanish
- To disappear suddenly and completely.
- Definition: Fade
- To gradually grow faint and disappear.
The footprints slowly disappeared in the rain.
Here, "disappeared" works, but "faded" might be even more precise if the disappearance was gradual.
The footprints slowly faded in the rain.
Using "vanish" in a context where something gradually becomes less visible can sound a bit off:
Awkward: The colors on the old painting
vanishedover time.
By being mindful of these common mistakes, A2 learners can gain confidence and accuracy in using "disappear" and related vocabulary.
How Formal Is It?
"The illusionist made the rabbit vanish from the top hat."
"The cat seemed to disappear into thin air."
"Then, poof! He was gone."
"The bubbles went poof!"
"He just ghosted me after our date."
Beispiele nach Niveau
The magician made the rabbit disappear from the hat.
El mago hizo desaparecer al conejo del sombrero.
Simple Past Tense
My keys always seem to disappear when I'm in a hurry.
Mis llaves siempre parecen desaparecer cuando tengo prisa.
Present Simple Tense, 'seem to' + infinitive
After the rain, the puddles quickly disappeared in the sun.
Después de la lluvia, los charcos desaparecieron rápidamente con el sol.
Simple Past Tense, adverb 'quickly'
We watched the sun disappear below the horizon.
Vimos el sol desaparecer por debajo del horizonte.
Simple Past Tense, 'watch' + base form
I hope these dark clouds will disappear soon.
Espero que estas nubes oscuras desaparezcan pronto.
Future Simple Tense, 'will' + base form
The small village seemed to disappear into the fog.
El pequeño pueblo parecía desaparecer en la niebla.
Simple Past Tense, 'seem to' + infinitive
If you don't save your work, it might disappear.
Si no guardas tu trabajo, podría desaparecer.
Conditional sentence (Type 1), 'might' + base form
The footprints in the sand started to disappear as the tide came in.
Las huellas en la arena comenzaron a desaparecer a medida que subía la marea.
Simple Past Tense, 'start to' + infinitive
The magician made the rabbit disappear from the hat, astonishing the audience with his trick.
El mago hizo desaparecer al conejo del sombrero, asombrando a la audiencia con su truco.
Past simple tense of 'disappear'.
Over time, many traditional crafts have started to disappear as technology advances.
Con el tiempo, muchas artesanías tradicionales han comenzado a desaparecer a medida que avanza la tecnología.
Present perfect tense, implying an ongoing process.
If you don't water the plants regularly, they will quickly disappear and die.
Si no riegas las plantas regularmente, desaparecerán rápidamente y morirán.
Future simple tense, indicating a consequence.
The old factory building seemed to disappear into the fog, becoming almost invisible.
El antiguo edificio de la fábrica parecía desaparecer en la niebla, volviéndose casi invisible.
Past simple tense, describing a past observation.
We watched the sun disappear below the horizon, painting the sky with vibrant colors.
Vimos el sol desaparecer por debajo del horizonte, pintando el cielo con colores vibrantes.
Infinitive form of 'disappear' following a verb of perception.
The evidence seemed to disappear without a trace, leaving investigators baffled.
La evidencia pareció desaparecer sin dejar rastro, dejando perplejos a los investigadores.
Past simple tense, emphasizing a sudden and unexplained event.
As the snow began to melt, the small footprints on the path started to disappear.
A medida que la nieve comenzaba a derretirse, las pequeñas huellas en el camino comenzaron a desaparecer.
Past simple tense, describing a gradual process.
It's important to act quickly before these endangered species completely disappear from our planet.
Es importante actuar rápidamente antes de que estas especies en peligro de extinción desaparezcan por completo de nuestro planeta.
Present simple tense, expressing a general truth or urgency.
The once-vibrant murals, exposed to the relentless elements, gradually began to disappear, their intricate details fading into obscurity.
Relentless elements: unerbittliche Witterungseinflüsse; intricate details: komplizierte Details; fading into obscurity: in Vergessenheit geraten
Past tense, focusing on a gradual process.
As dawn broke, the dense fog that had enveloped the valley throughout the night started to disappear, revealing the majestic peaks beyond.
Enveloped the valley: das Tal eingehüllt hatte; revealing the majestic peaks: die majestätischen Gipfel enthüllend
Past tense, describing a natural phenomenon.
Despite extensive forensic efforts, crucial evidence related to the embezzlement scheme seemed to disappear without a trace, baffling investigators.
Extensive forensic efforts: umfassende forensische Bemühungen; embezzlement scheme: Veruntreuungsplan; baffling investigators: die Ermittler verblüffend
Past tense, emphasizing the complete absence of something.
The endangered species' habitat continued to disappear at an alarming rate, a stark reminder of humanity's impact on biodiversity.
Endangered species' habitat: Lebensraum der gefährdeten Art; alarming rate: alarmierende Geschwindigkeit; stark reminder: deutliche Mahnung
Past tense, focusing on an ongoing and concerning trend.
He had a remarkable ability to disappear into a crowd, a skill honed over years of clandestine operations.
Remarkable ability: bemerkenswerte Fähigkeit; honed over years: über Jahre hinweg verfeinert; clandestine operations: geheime Operationen
Past tense, describing a learned skill.
The subtle nuances of her performance might disappear if viewed from the back row, making a front-row seat highly coveted.
Subtle nuances: subtile Nuancen; highly coveted: sehr begehrt
Conditional, discussing potential loss of detail.
With the advent of digital photography, the art of film development began to slowly but surely disappear, becoming a niche pursuit.
Advent of digital photography: Aufkommen der digitalen Fotografie; niche pursuit: Nischenbeschäftigung
Past tense, detailing a historical shift.
The ancient rituals, once integral to the community's identity, were threatening to disappear entirely as younger generations embraced modern customs.
Integral to the community's identity: integraler Bestandteil der Identität der Gemeinschaft; embraced modern customs: moderne Bräuche annahmen
Past tense, indicating a future threat to existence.
Häufige Kollokationen
Häufige Phrasen
The sun disappeared behind the clouds.
My keys have disappeared!
The magician made the rabbit disappear.
He watched her disappear down the street.
The pain slowly disappeared.
The old buildings have disappeared to make way for new ones.
I hope these dark circles disappear soon.
The fog began to disappear.
She disappeared around the corner.
The money just disappeared from my wallet.
Redewendungen & Ausdrücke
"vanish into thin air"
To disappear completely and mysteriously.
One moment the magician was there, the next he had vanished into thin air.
neutral"fade away"
To gradually disappear.
The old photograph had started to fade away over the years.
neutral"melt away"
To disappear slowly, often like ice melting.
The crowd began to melt away after the concert ended.
neutral"do a disappearing act"
To disappear suddenly or without explanation.
He did a disappearing act right before he was supposed to pay the bill.
informal"go missing"
To disappear and be lost or unable to be found.
My keys have gone missing again.
neutral"be gone in a flash"
To disappear very quickly.
The children were gone in a flash when they heard the ice cream truck.
informal"disappear off the face of the earth"
To disappear completely, without a trace.
After the scandal, he seemed to disappear off the face of the earth.
neutral"peter out"
To gradually diminish and disappear.
The excitement of the project began to peter out after a few weeks.
neutral"evaporate"
To disappear, often like a liquid turning into vapor.
All his hopes of winning the lottery seemed to evaporate when he saw the numbers.
neutral"take French leave"
To depart without permission or without informing anyone.
He took French leave from the party without saying goodbye.
informalSo verwendest du es
When something disappears, it is no longer in sight. For example, 'The magician made the rabbit disappear.' It can also mean to cease to exist, like 'The old traditions are disappearing.'
A common mistake is using 'loose' instead of 'lose' when referring to something disappearing. For example, 'I don't want to lose my keys' is correct, not 'I don't want to loose my keys.'
Tipps
Use flashcards
Create flashcards with 'disappear' on one side and 'to stop being visible' on the other. Include a small drawing if it helps!
Practice pronunciation
Say 'disappear' aloud several times. Pay attention to the stress on the third syllable: dis-ap-PEAR.
Write sentences
Try writing five simple sentences using 'disappear'. For example: 'The rabbit will disappear into its hole.'
Listen for the word
Watch a short English video or listen to a song and see if you can hear the word 'disappear' being used in context.
Think of synonyms/antonyms
Think of words that mean the opposite, like 'appear' or 'materialize'. This can help you understand 'disappear' better.
Visualize it
Close your eyes and imagine something slowly starting to disappear. This can create a stronger memory.
Use it in conversation
If you have an English-speaking friend or tutor, try to use 'disappear' naturally in a conversation.
Relate to your language
Does your native language have a similar word or concept for 'disappear'? Making connections can be helpful.
Review regularly
Don't just learn it once! Go back and review 'disappear' and its definition in a few days to reinforce your memory.
Be careful with 'dissolve'
While similar, 'disappear' means to stop being visible, while 'dissolve' means to become part of a liquid. For example, sugar dissolves, but a magic trick makes a person disappear.
Im Alltag üben
Kontexte aus dem Alltag
The magician made the rabbit disappear from the hat.
- made ... disappear
- from the hat
The fog caused the distant mountains to disappear from view.
- disappear from view
- caused ... to disappear
I put my keys on the table, but now they've disappeared!
- have disappeared
- now they've disappeared
As the sun set, the last rays of light began to disappear over the horizon.
- began to disappear
- over the horizon
If you don't save your work, your changes might disappear.
- might disappear
- if you don't save
Gesprächseinstiege
"Have you ever had something important disappear, and where did you eventually find it?"
"What are some things that disappear naturally over time?"
"Do you believe in things disappearing and reappearing mysteriously?"
"What would you do if your favorite object suddenly disappeared?"
"Can you think of a time when a problem seemed to disappear on its own?"
Tagebuch-Impulse
Describe a time when you saw something disappear. What was it, and how did it happen?
Imagine a world where things could disappear and reappear at will. How would everyday life be different?
Write about a memory that you wish wouldn't disappear.
What feelings do you associate with things disappearing? (e.g., surprise, frustration, wonder)
If you could make one thing disappear forever, what would it be and why?
Häufig gestellte Fragen
10 FragenBoth 'disappear' and 'vanish' mean to stop being visible. 'Vanish' often suggests a sudden or complete disappearance, almost as if by magic. For example, 'The magician made the rabbit vanish.' 'Disappear' can be more general and might imply a gradual or expected fading. For example, 'The sun disappeared behind the clouds.'
Yes, absolutely! You can say things like, 'My friend disappeared around the corner,' or 'He disappeared from the party early.' It just means they are no longer visible or present.
While it most commonly refers to stopping being visible, 'disappear' can also sometimes be used in a more figurative sense. For example, 'My money disappeared very quickly!' or 'The problem disappeared after we fixed it.' In these cases, it means something is gone or no longer present, even if you couldn't 'see' it in the first place.
The past tense of 'disappear' is 'disappeared.' For example, 'The cat disappeared under the bed.'
The most common opposite of 'disappear' is 'appear.' For example, 'The rabbit appeared from the hat.'
No, you don't 'disappear' an object. 'Disappear' is usually an intransitive verb, meaning it doesn't take a direct object. An object 'disappears' on its own. For example, you say 'The ball disappeared,' not 'I disappeared the ball.' If you want to make something vanish, you might say 'I made the ball disappear' or 'I hid the ball.'
It's a regular verb. This means its past tense and past participle are formed by adding '-ed' to the base form: disappear, disappeared, disappeared.
Yes, you can! For instance, you could say, 'My sadness disappeared after I talked to my friend.' Or, 'My worries disappeared when I heard the good news.' It means the feeling is no longer present.
This is an idiom that means something has vanished completely and mysteriously, as if it never existed. It implies a very sudden and inexplicable disappearance. For example, 'The keys disappeared into thin air!'
Yes, there are a few! You often see 'disappear' followed by prepositions like 'into,' 'behind,' 'under,' 'from,' or 'around.' For example: 'The sun disappeared behind the clouds,' 'He disappeared into the crowd,' 'The mouse disappeared under the sofa.'
Teste dich selbst 108 Fragen
The sun will ___ behind the clouds.
When something 'disappears', it stops being visible. The sun goes behind clouds and you can't see it.
My cat likes to ___ under the bed.
If the cat 'disappears' under the bed, it means you can't see it anymore.
The magician made the rabbit ___.
Magicians make things 'disappear' as part of their tricks, meaning they are no longer visible.
Oh no! My keys ___ from the table.
If your keys 'disappeared' from the table, it means you can't see them there anymore.
The small boat will ___ behind the big ship.
The small boat will 'disappear' behind the big ship because the big ship will block it from view.
When the lights go out, everything will ___ in the dark.
In the dark, things 'disappear' because you cannot see them.
The magician made the rabbit ______.
To 'disappear' means to stop being visible, which is what a magician does with a rabbit.
If you close your eyes, the light will ______.
When you close your eyes, you can no longer see the light, so it 'disappears' from your view.
The sun will ______ behind the clouds.
When the sun goes behind the clouds, it stops being visible, which means it 'disappears'.
If something disappears, you can still see it.
To 'disappear' means to stop being visible, so you cannot see it.
The snow can disappear when it gets warm.
When it gets warm, snow melts and is no longer visible, so it 'disappears'.
A balloon can disappear if it flies very high into the sky.
If a balloon flies very high, it can go out of sight and 'disappear'.
Write a short sentence about something that can disappear.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
The sun can disappear behind the clouds.
Complete the sentence: 'When it rains, the rainbow might ___.'
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
When it rains, the rainbow might disappear.
Write a sentence using the word 'disappear' to describe a magic trick.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
The magician makes the rabbit disappear.
What does the cat do under the bed?
Read this passage:
My cat likes to play hide-and-seek. Sometimes, she hides under the bed. It looks like she will disappear! Then, I call her name, and she comes out.
What does the cat do under the bed?
The passage says, 'Sometimes, she hides under the bed.'
The passage says, 'Sometimes, she hides under the bed.'
What comes out when the sun disappears?
Read this passage:
The sun is bright in the morning. In the evening, the sun will disappear. Then, the moon and stars come out.
What comes out when the sun disappears?
The passage states, 'Then, the moon and stars come out.'
The passage states, 'Then, the moon and stars come out.'
Why did the toy car disappear?
Read this passage:
I put my toy car on the table. Later, I cannot find it. Did it disappear? Oh, no! My little brother took it to play.
Why did the toy car disappear?
The passage says, 'My little brother took it to play.'
The passage says, 'My little brother took it to play.'
This sentence describes the cat hiding behind the sofa, meaning it will stop being visible.
This sentence describes the sun becoming hidden by clouds, meaning it will stop being visible.
This sentence describes a friend hiding, meaning they stop being visible during the game.
The sun will ___ behind the clouds soon.
To disappear means to stop being visible.
My keys always ___ when I need them most.
To disappear means to stop being visible, or to be lost.
The magician made the rabbit ___ from the hat.
To disappear means to stop being visible.
Don't worry, the bad weather will ___ by tomorrow.
To disappear means to stop being visible or present.
The small boat seemed to ___ in the fog.
To disappear means to stop being visible.
The stains on the shirt will ___ after you wash it.
To disappear means to stop being visible.
This sentence describes the sun setting and becoming invisible.
This sentence shows the cat hiding and no longer being visible.
This sentence describes a magic trick where something becomes invisible.
Listen for how the magician performed the trick.
Consider the consequence of not saving your work.
Think about what happened to the fog with the sunrise.
Read this aloud:
Can you explain why some species might disappear over time?
Focus: disappear
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Read this aloud:
Describe a time when something you were looking for seemed to disappear completely.
Focus: completely
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Read this aloud:
In what situations do you think people wish they could just disappear?
Focus: situations
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Imagine you are at a magic show. Describe what happens when a magician makes something disappear. Use at least 50 words.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
At the magic show, the magician stood on the stage, a mysterious smile on his face. He placed a red silk scarf on a table, covered it with a black cloth, and then, with a flourish, he pulled the cloth away. To everyone's surprise, the scarf had completely disappeared! The audience gasped and applauded. It was an amazing trick; I couldn't figure out how he made it vanish so suddenly.
Write a short paragraph about something you've seen disappear in real life, like an object or a natural phenomenon (e.g., fog, a rainbow). Explain how it disappeared.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
I once saw a thick fog gradually disappear as the sun rose higher in the sky. At first, everything was covered in a dense white blanket, and I could barely see the houses across the street. But as the morning progressed, the fog began to thin, slowly fading away until the clear blue sky was visible again. It was interesting to watch it vanish completely.
You are writing a story about a hidden treasure. Describe how a map or a clue to the treasure might disappear, adding to the mystery.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
The ancient map, yellowed with age, lay on the dusty table. As I reached out to touch it, a sudden gust of wind swept through the open window, lifting the map into the air. It fluttered for a moment, then seemed to simply disappear into the night, leaving no trace behind. The secret of the treasure became even more mysterious without the map.
What is Sarah looking for?
Read this passage:
Sarah was searching for her keys. She had placed them on the kitchen counter just a moment ago, but now they were gone. She looked under some papers, checked inside a bowl of fruit, and even peered into the toaster. It was as if they had simply disappeared into thin air. She sighed, wondering if she would ever find them again.
What is Sarah looking for?
The passage clearly states, 'Sarah was searching for her keys.'
The passage clearly states, 'Sarah was searching for her keys.'
What is causing many animal species to disappear?
Read this passage:
Many species of animals are facing extinction due to habitat loss and climate change. If their natural environments continue to disappear, these animals will have nowhere to live and will eventually vanish from the planet forever. Conservation efforts are crucial to prevent this.
What is causing many animal species to disappear?
The passage states, 'Many species of animals are facing extinction due to habitat loss and climate change.'
The passage states, 'Many species of animals are facing extinction due to habitat loss and climate change.'
What happens during a solar eclipse?
Read this passage:
During a solar eclipse, the moon passes between the sun and Earth, causing the sun to appear to disappear from our view. This spectacular event only happens occasionally and is a rare treat for stargazers. Even though the sun doesn't actually vanish, it seems to for a short period.
What happens during a solar eclipse?
The passage explains, 'the moon passes between the sun and Earth, causing the sun to appear to disappear from our view.'
The passage explains, 'the moon passes between the sun and Earth, causing the sun to appear to disappear from our view.'
This sentence describes a magician's trick.
This sentence talks about puddles drying up.
This sentence describes the sunset.
The magician made the rabbit ______ from the hat with a flick of his wrist.
While 'vanish' is a close synonym, 'disappear' is the most direct and common word used in the context of magic tricks for something ceasing to be visible.
After the heavy rainfall, the small puddles on the sidewalk started to ______ under the warm sun.
'Disappear' accurately describes the puddles ceasing to be visible as they evaporate. 'Fade' implies a loss of color, 'recede' means to move back, and 'diminish' means to become less in size or importance, which aren't the primary meanings here.
The old traditions began to ______ as modern customs gained popularity among the younger generation.
In this context, 'disappear' means the traditions stopped being visible or practiced. 'Wane' implies a decrease in strength, 'decline' suggests a gradual fall, and 'subside' means to become less intense or severe. While related, 'disappear' best fits the idea of customs ceasing to exist visibly.
If something disappears, it is no longer perceptible to the senses, especially sight.
The definition of 'disappear' is to stop being visible, meaning it can no longer be seen.
When a problem disappears, it means it has become more complicated.
If a problem 'disappears', it means it no longer exists or is no longer present, which implies it has been resolved or gone away, not become more complicated.
A magician uses the word 'disappear' to describe making an object reappear.
Magicians use 'disappear' to describe making an object stop being visible, and 'reappear' for making it visible again.
Focus on the verb 'disappear' and how it's used in the past tense.
Listen for the conditional structure and the implication of loss.
Pay attention to the broader context of cultural change.
Read this aloud:
After the rain, the puddles began to disappear quickly under the sun.
Focus: disappear
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Read this aloud:
It's always sad to watch a beautiful sunset disappear below the horizon.
Focus: disappear, horizon
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Read this aloud:
Some species of animals could disappear if we don't protect their habitats.
Focus: disappear, habitats
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Imagine you are writing a short story. Describe a scene where a mysterious object or person slowly disappears from sight. Focus on the sensory details and the character's reaction.
Well written! Good try! Check the sample answer below.
Sample answer
As the moon began its descent, casting long, eerie shadows across the ancient ruins, the shimmering figure at the altar started to dissipate. First, its edges blurred, like a watercolor painting left in the rain. Then, its form became translucent, the stone behind it peeking through as if it were a ghost made of mist. A gasp escaped my lips, a blend of awe and fear, as the last vestiges of its ethereal presence swirled into nothingness, leaving only the cold, hard stone and the oppressive silence of the night.
Write a short paragraph explaining the concept of endangered species and why it's important for certain animals not to 'disappear' from our planet. Use at least one example.
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Sample answer
Endangered species are those populations of animals or plants facing a high risk of extinction, essentially threatening to 'disappear' from the Earth forever. This phenomenon, often driven by human activities like habitat loss, pollution, and climate change, is critical because it diminishes global biodiversity, which is vital for maintaining healthy ecosystems. For instance, the disappearance of pollinators like bees could have devastating consequences for our food supply, highlighting the interconnectedness of all life and the urgent need for conservation efforts.
You are a detective investigating a magic show where the magician genuinely disappeared. Write a short report outlining your initial observations and any theories you might have about how they managed to 'disappear' without a trace.
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Sample answer
Case File: The Vanishing Act. During last night's performance at the Grand Theatre, the esteemed illusionist, 'The Great Phantasma,' genuinely vanished from the stage mid-act. Witnesses confirm he entered a seemingly empty cabinet, which was then draped with a silk cloth. Upon removal, the cabinet was unequivocally empty. There are no concealed exits in the stage floor or walls, nor any evidence of trapdoors. Initial theories range from an elaborate, unknown mechanism utilizing light distortion, to a highly sophisticated, undetectable teleportation device, which, while improbable, cannot be entirely ruled out given the absolute lack of physical trace. Further investigation will focus on the unique properties of the cabinet and any pre-show modifications.
According to the passage, what concept challenges our classical understanding of how objects move?
Read this passage:
In the realm of quantum physics, particles can sometimes exhibit peculiar behavior, seemingly disappearing from one location and reappearing in another instantaneously. This phenomenon, known as quantum tunneling, challenges our classical understanding of how objects move and interact. While it occurs at a subatomic level, its implications are profound, hinting at a reality far more complex than what our everyday senses perceive.
According to the passage, what concept challenges our classical understanding of how objects move?
The passage states that 'This phenomenon, known as quantum tunneling, challenges our classical understanding of how objects move and interact,' and the phenomenon described is particles 'disappearing from one location and reappearing in another instantaneously.'
The passage states that 'This phenomenon, known as quantum tunneling, challenges our classical understanding of how objects move and interact,' and the phenomenon described is particles 'disappearing from one location and reappearing in another instantaneously.'
What is one of the theories regarding how Atlantis might have 'disappeared'?
Read this passage:
The ancient city of Atlantis has long been a subject of myth and speculation. Described by Plato as a powerful naval empire that 'disappeared in a single day and night of misfortune,' its existence remains unconfirmed. While some theories suggest it was swallowed by the sea due to a catastrophic natural event, others believe it to be purely an allegorical tale, a cautionary narrative about hubris and divine retribution.
What is one of the theories regarding how Atlantis might have 'disappeared'?
The passage explicitly mentions, 'some theories suggest it was swallowed by the sea due to a catastrophic natural event.'
The passage explicitly mentions, 'some theories suggest it was swallowed by the sea due to a catastrophic natural event.'
What is the primary purpose of animals 'disappearing' through camouflage?
Read this passage:
The art of camouflage is a fascinating survival mechanism in the animal kingdom. Many species have evolved remarkable abilities to blend seamlessly with their surroundings, effectively 'disappearing' from the sight of predators or prey. From the chameleon's ability to change its skin color to the stick insect's uncanny resemblance to a twig, these adaptations are crucial for survival in diverse environments.
What is the primary purpose of animals 'disappearing' through camouflage?
The passage states, 'effectively 'disappearing' from the sight of predators or prey. From the chameleon's ability to change its skin color... these adaptations are crucial for survival.'
The passage states, 'effectively 'disappearing' from the sight of predators or prey. From the chameleon's ability to change its skin color... these adaptations are crucial for survival.'
This sentence describes the natural phenomenon of stars fading with the arrival of dawn, demonstrating the use of 'disappear' in a descriptive context.
This sentence uses 'disappear' to describe something getting lost, a common usage of the word.
This sentence employs 'disappear' to convey the idea of something being gradually covered or lost over time, suitable for a B2 level.
The once vibrant coral reefs are beginning to ___ due to rising ocean temperatures, a clear indicator of climate change's impact.
The context implies a complete cessation of visibility or existence, which 'disappear' best conveys. 'Disperse' means to scatter, 'diminish' means to reduce, and 'dissolve' means to become incorporated into a liquid.
Despite extensive search efforts, the ancient manuscript seemed to ___ without a trace, baffling historians for decades.
The phrase 'without a trace' strongly suggests a complete and mysterious cessation of presence, making 'disappear' the most appropriate choice. 'Vanish' is a close synonym but 'disappear' fits the formal tone well. 'Evaporate' implies turning into vapor, and 'fade' implies a gradual loss of intensity.
The dense fog caused the distant mountain peaks to ___ from view, creating an eerie, isolated landscape.
The fog causing the peaks to be no longer visible fits the definition of 'disappear'. 'Obscure' means to make unclear, 'recede' means to go back or further away, and 'blur' means to make indistinct.
It's unsettling to think that entire species can ___ from the planet within a mere century due to human activity.
The sentence speaks about species no longer existing on the planet, which is precisely what 'disappear' signifies in this context. 'Perish' means to die, 'extinguish' means to put out (a fire) or bring to an end, and 'cease' means to stop happening.
As the magician waved his hand, the silk scarf seemed to ___ into thin air, leaving the audience bewildered.
The act of something becoming invisible or ceasing to be present, especially in a magical context, is best described by 'disappear'. 'Dematerialize' is a very close synonym but 'disappear' is more commonly used in this context. 'Dissolve' means to become liquid, and 'evaporate' implies turning into vapor.
The fleeting moments of childhood often ___ in the haze of adult memories, becoming harder to recall with clarity.
The idea of memories becoming no longer visible or retrievable aligns with 'disappear'. 'Fade' is also possible for memories, but 'disappear' implies a more complete loss of presence. 'Wane' refers to a decrease in strength, and 'subside' means to become less intense.
The magician made the rabbit completely ___ from the hat.
While 'vanish' is a close synonym, 'disappear' is the most direct and common word for ceasing to be visible, fitting the context of a magic trick.
After the scandal, the politician seemed to ___ from public life, rarely making appearances or statements.
'Fade away' implies a gradual and intentional withdrawal, which aligns with a politician stepping back from public life after a scandal. 'Disappear' could also work, but 'fade away' captures the nuance of a less abrupt exit.
The ancient ruins have almost entirely ___ beneath layers of earth and vegetation over centuries.
In this context, 'disappeared' accurately describes the ruins becoming no longer visible due to natural processes over time. While 'eroded' and 'submerged' could contribute to their disappearance, 'disappeared' is the overarching outcome.
If something disappears, it ceases to exist entirely.
Disappearing means it stops being visible, not necessarily that it ceases to exist. A person can disappear but still be alive, or an object can be hidden from sight.
A magician makes things disappear through genuine magic.
Magicians create illusions. While they make things 'disappear' from view, it's through tricks and sleight of hand, not actual magic.
When a species disappears, it means it has become extinct.
In the context of species, 'disappear' often refers to extinction, meaning the species no longer exists.
Focus on how 'disappear' is used in a figurative sense.
Consider the nuance of 'slowly disappear' and its atmospheric implication.
Notice how 'disappear' describes a change in expression.
Read this aloud:
After years of neglect, the old traditions started to disappear from the community's collective memory.
Focus: disappear
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The magician made the rabbit disappear with such practiced ease, leaving the audience utterly bewildered.
Focus: disappear
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It's disheartening to see how quickly some endangered species can disappear from our planet due to human impact.
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Imagine a situation where something valuable unexpectedly disappeared. Describe the event, your immediate reaction, and what steps you took to understand or recover it. Use vivid language to convey your emotions.
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Sample answer
One sweltering afternoon, my antique pocket watch, a cherished family heirloom, simply vanished from my bedside table. My heart pounded as I frantically searched, a cold dread seeping into my bones. It was as if it had dematerialized, leaving behind only the lingering scent of old brass and a profound sense of perplexity. I meticulously retraced my steps, questioning every detail, but the watch had utterly disappeared, a bewildering mystery. The initial shock gave way to a frustrating determination to unravel its sudden absence.
Discuss a phenomenon, natural or artificial, that is slowly disappearing due to environmental changes or technological advancements. Explain the causes and potential consequences of its disappearance.
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Sample answer
The polar ice caps are slowly but inexorably disappearing, a stark consequence of global warming. Rising temperatures, fueled by anthropogenic greenhouse gas emissions, are causing these vital reservoirs of freshwater to melt at an alarming rate. The ramifications are profound: rising sea levels threaten coastal communities, delicate ecosystems are disrupted, and extreme weather events become more frequent. The disappearance of these majestic icy landscapes signals an irreversible shift in our planet's climate, underscoring the urgent need for comprehensive conservation efforts.
Write a short narrative about a character who intentionally tries to disappear from their current life. What motivates them, what challenges do they face, and what is the outcome of their attempt?
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Sample answer
Driven by an overwhelming desire for anonymity and a fresh start, Elias decided to disappear. He meticulously planned his departure, severing all ties, leaving behind a life burdened by expectations and regret. The initial exhilaration of newfound freedom soon gave way to the arduous challenge of building a new identity from scratch. He constantly looked over his shoulder, fearing recognition, every shadow a potential threat to his carefully constructed illusion. Though he successfully eluded his past, the haunting silence of his solitude often made him question the true cost of his disappearance.
According to the passage, what is a key characteristic of 'disappearing' particles?
Read this passage:
In the realm of theoretical physics, the concept of a 'disappearing' particle is often explored. These particles, sometimes referred to as 'ghost particles,' are hypothetical entities that might momentarily exist and then cease to be observable, perhaps due to extremely short lifespans or interactions that render them undetectable. While their existence remains unproven, the idea challenges our conventional understanding of permanence and presence in the universe.
According to the passage, what is a key characteristic of 'disappearing' particles?
The passage states that these particles 'might momentarily exist and then cease to be observable,' indicating their theoretical nature and transient visibility.
The passage states that these particles 'might momentarily exist and then cease to be observable,' indicating their theoretical nature and transient visibility.
What is suggested as a reason for celestial bodies 'disappearing' in ancient observations?
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Many ancient civilizations recorded observations of celestial bodies that, over time, appear to 'disappear' from the night sky. These phenomena, often attributed to supernovas or long-period comets, held profound cultural and religious significance. The sudden vanishing of a prominent star, for instance, could be interpreted as an omen, a divine message, or a precursor to significant earthly events.
What is suggested as a reason for celestial bodies 'disappearing' in ancient observations?
The passage mentions 'supernovas or long-period comets' as reasons for these celestial bodies to appear to 'disappear' from the night sky.
The passage mentions 'supernovas or long-period comets' as reasons for these celestial bodies to appear to 'disappear' from the night sky.
What is the primary method magicians use to make things 'disappear'?
Read this passage:
The art of illusion has long fascinated audiences, with magicians creating astonishing feats where objects or even people seem to disappear right before our eyes. These elaborate tricks rely on a combination of misdirection, cleverly concealed mechanisms, and psychological manipulation to create the impression of something ceasing to exist. The success of such an illusion lies not in true disappearance, but in the audience's perception of it.
What is the primary method magicians use to make things 'disappear'?
The passage explains that illusions rely on 'a combination of misdirection, cleverly concealed mechanisms, and psychological manipulation to create the impression of something ceasing to exist.'
The passage explains that illusions rely on 'a combination of misdirection, cleverly concealed mechanisms, and psychological manipulation to create the impression of something ceasing to exist.'
The once vibrant traditions began to ___ into obscurity as the younger generation embraced modern customs.
To 'disappear into obscurity' means to gradually cease to be known or remembered. 'Dissipate' and 'evaporate' suggest a more active or physical fading, while 'vanish' implies a sudden, complete disappearance. 'Disappear' fits the gradual nature of traditions fading.
Despite the detective's exhaustive efforts, the crucial evidence seemed to ___ without a trace, baffling all involved in the investigation.
To 'disappear without a trace' is a common idiom meaning to vanish completely and inexplicably. 'Dematerialize' suggests a more supernatural or fictional vanishing. 'Recede' and 'subside' imply a withdrawal or lessening, not a complete vanishing.
As the sun dipped below the horizon, the intricate details of the ancient ruins began to ___ from view, enveloped by the encroaching twilight.
To 'disappear from view' is a direct way to describe something becoming no longer visible. While 'wane' and 'diminish' suggest a reduction, 'disappear' specifically refers to the loss of visibility. 'Obfuscate' means to make unclear or confusing.
The subtle nuances of the artist's brushwork would often ___ when viewed from a distance, requiring closer inspection to be fully appreciated.
In this context, 'disappear' means to become imperceptible or indistinguishable. The nuances don't literally vanish, but their visibility ceases. 'Dissolve' implies a breakdown, 'disperse' a spreading out, and 'evade' means to avoid.
The contentious issue, once a focal point of political discourse, seemed to ___ from the public agenda as new priorities emerged.
Here, 'disappear from the public agenda' means to cease being a topic of discussion or concern. While 'recede,' 'subside,' and 'wane' all imply a reduction, 'disappear' strongly conveys the sense of no longer being present or active.
After the scandal broke, the celebrity chose to ___ from the public eye for several months, seeking respite from intense media scrutiny.
To 'disappear from the public eye' is a common idiom meaning to intentionally remove oneself from public visibility or attention. 'Vanish' implies a more sudden and possibly involuntary absence. 'Withdraw' and 'retreat' are similar but 'disappear' is more idiomatic in this context.
/ 108 correct
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Use flashcards
Create flashcards with 'disappear' on one side and 'to stop being visible' on the other. Include a small drawing if it helps!
Practice pronunciation
Say 'disappear' aloud several times. Pay attention to the stress on the third syllable: dis-ap-PEAR.
Write sentences
Try writing five simple sentences using 'disappear'. For example: 'The rabbit will disappear into its hole.'
Listen for the word
Watch a short English video or listen to a song and see if you can hear the word 'disappear' being used in context.
Verwandte Inhalte
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Dieses Wort in anderen Sprachen
Mehr general Wörter
a lot of
A2Das bedeutet, dass man von etwas eine große Menge hat. Es ist ein sehr gebräuchlicher Ausdruck für 'viel'.
about
A1Das Wort 'about' kann bedeuten, dass es um ein Thema geht, oder dass etwas ungefähr richtig ist.
above
A2An einem höheren Ort als etwas anderes, direkt darüber.
accident
A2Ein Unglück, das schlecht ausgeht und manchmal jemanden verletzt.
action
A2Aktion ist das Tun von etwas, um ein Ziel zu erreichen.
after
A2Wenn etwas 'after' passiert, kommt es später als etwas anderes, zeitlich oder räumlich.
afterward
A2At a later or subsequent time.
again
A2'Again' bedeutet, dass etwas noch einmal passiert oder wiederholt wird.
aged
B1Das beschreibt das Alter einer Person oder Sache, meistens in einem bestimmten Kontext.
alive
A2Etwas, das lebt und nicht tot ist.
