What does nullify mean?
Word: Nullify
Part of Speech: Verb
Meaning: Nullify means to take away the effect of something, so that it no longer counts or works.
Synonyms: cancel
How do you spell nullify?
Syllables: nul - li - fy
Tricky part: Pupils hear one l and write one. The word holds on to the double l of null.
Watch out for: nulify, nulifie
Memory tip: Think of null, a word for nothing at all. Its two l's stay put when it grows longer.
Nullify in a sentence
Example 1: Extra homework nullified the joy of the long weekend.
Example 2: Scoring late in the game, the visitors nullified our early lead.
Example 3: The new rule nullifies any ticket bought before Monday.
Fun Fact
It comes from the Latin nullus, 'none'. The same word gives English the phrase null and void, which a lawyer uses for an agreement that has no force at all.
Practise the CREST Way
Word Cookie
Insert the correct pair of letters to form a word:
null_f_
a) i, e
b) y, y
c) i, y
d) e, y
Show answer
c) i, y. The ending here is the one in verify and magnify.
Mingle-Mangle
The sentence contains a jumbled word. Choose the word it hides:
Leaving the fridge door open can ylfinlu the savings from new energy-efficient bulbs.
a) qualify
b) nullify
c) notify
d) justify
Show answer
b) nullify. Notify, justify and qualify each need a letter that is not there.
Word Connection
Choose the synonym of the word nullify as used in the sentence:
A late penalty could nullify all the team's hard work in the opening half.
a) negate
b) reward
c) improve
d) repeat
Show answer
a) negate. To negate something is to stop it having any effect.
Spell-o-Spell
Only one word in the list is misspelt. Choose the meaning of the misspelt word.
1. overturn 2. restrict 3. nullify 4. postpon
a) to keep something within a set limit
b) to turn something upside down
c) to move an event to a later date
d) to wipe out the result of something
Show answer
c) to move an event to a later date. Postpone ends in a silent e.
Multiple Choice Questions
1. A no-ball call nullified the catch. What does that mean for the batter?
a) the catch counts as two wickets
b) the batter walks back to the pavilion
c) the batter stays in and carries on
d) the fielding team gets five runs
Show answer
c) the batter stays in and carries on
2. What would nullify the effect of a loud alarm clock?
a) a clock placed closer to the bed
b) earplugs worn through the night
c) a fresh set of batteries
d) a louder ringing tone
Show answer
b) earplugs worn through the night
