# deprive sb/sth of sth

CEFR B2 · Phrasal verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/deprive-sb-sth-of-sth
Updated: 2026-04-24

## Definition

to take something away from someone or prevent them from having something they need.

For teachers: to prevent a person or entity from possessing or enjoying something, typically a necessity or a right; functions as a transitive verb with a prepositional complement.

## Examples

- You shouldn't deprive yourself of sleep to study.
- The new law would deprive many citizens of their right to vote in the upcoming election.
- The harsh winter conditions threatened to deprive the isolated mountain village of its primary food supply for several weeks.

## Pitfalls

- Not "They deprive him from his rights." but "They deprive him of his rights." — the verb 'deprive' must be followed by the preposition 'of', not 'from'.

## Usage notes

- always requires the preposition 'of' before the thing being taken away.
- Teaching tip: contrast with 'rob' (stealing) and 'deny' (refusing to give); 'deprive' often implies a long-term loss of a basic need like sleep, food, or rights.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.