Words / C1

ri-LEEV/rɪˈliːv/

To relieve is to make a problem less severe, or to take over a duty: relieve pain, relieve a colleague. Relief (this batch) is the noun; dedication is not a waiver of a named hour.

Meaning

To make a pain or problem less severe; also to take over a duty from someone.

Examples

• “Relieve the lone invigilator at the named hour; dedication is not a waiver.”
• “Relief is this batch. Ease is everyday. Dedication is a slogan. An hour is a rota line. Turn up at the hour; keep the slogan for the stairs.”

Good to know

Ease a problem, or take over a duty. Noun: relief (this batch). Dedication ≠ a skipped handover.

Near in meaning

ease

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