Word
riddance
Phoneticsrid·dance, stress on the first syllable
US/ˈɹɪdəns/
UK/ɹˈɪdəns/
Definition
n. the act of getting rid of something or someone you do not want. It is a formal word for saying goodbye to something that is a burden.
n. the act of getting rid of something or someone; the state of being free from a burden or annoyance. Often used in the phrase 'to be rid of'.
Examples
“The removal of the old fence was a great riddance.”
“After years of dealing with the noisy neighbor, the residents were overjoyed at the riddance of the property.”
“The sudden departure of the CEO was a welcome riddance for the board, who had grown increasingly frustrated with his erratic leadership style.”
Examples
simple
“The removal of the old fence was a great riddance.”
contextual
“After years of dealing with the noisy neighbor, the residents were overjoyed at the riddance of the property.”
complex
“The sudden departure of the CEO was a welcome riddance for the board, who had grown increasingly frustrated with his erratic leadership style.”
Real-World Examples
“A Delta Air Lines flight attendant was fired after posting "good riddance" in response to Kirk's killing.” “I would say good riddance, but I am typing this on a MacBook Pro with a butterfly keyboard right now.” Word family
VERB
NOUN
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.C1 AdvancedIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.7.0–8.0TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 5.0–5.595–113TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.945–990
- Frequency
- Occasional
- Level
- C1 · Advanced
- Updated
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