Words / C2

NUL-if-eye/ˈnʌlɪfaɪ/

To nullify is to make something of no legal or practical effect: nullify a result, nullify the advantage. Cancel (already in the dictionary) is everyday; void and annul are legal cousins. Null is “having no value or effect”. Do not claim a refresh nullified an error if the only CSV is gone.

Meaning

To make something legally or practically of no effect.

Examples

• “A missing consent clause nullifies the claim that the study was “cleared”.”
• “Cancel is everyday (already in the dictionary). Void is empty of legal force. Negate is deny or cancel out. A dated correction can still stand. Deleting the sole file does not “nullify” the gap; it is the gap. Back up the CSV before you boast of a refresh.”

Good to know

Make void; cancel the effect. Everyday: cancel. Legal cousins: void / annul. A missing clause undoes the claim; a slogan does not restore it.

Near in meaning

cancel

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