The Opposite(Antonym) of “lengthen”
The antonyms of lengthen are shorten, curtail, and abbreviate. These words convey the opposite meaning of making something longer or extending its duration.
Explore all Antonyms of “lengthen”
Definitions and Examples of shorten, curtail, abbreviate
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
To make something shorter in length or duration.
Example
She had to shorten her essay because it was too long.
To reduce the length or duration of something.
Example
The company had to curtail its expenses due to financial difficulties.
To shorten a word, phrase, or text by omitting letters or parts.
Example
The Latin phrase was abbreviated to fit on the sign.
Key Differences: shorten vs curtail vs abbreviate
- 1Shorten is a general term that describes reducing the length or duration of something.
- 2Curtail is a more specific term that implies cutting back or limiting something.
- 3Abbreviate is a term used for shortening words or phrases by omitting letters or parts.
Effective Usage of shorten, curtail, abbreviate
- 1Academic Writing: Use these antonyms to express ideas concisely and effectively.
- 2Business Communication: Incorporate these antonyms in emails or reports to convey information clearly and efficiently.
- 3Everyday Conversation: Utilize these antonyms to describe actions or events in daily life.
Remember this!
The antonyms of lengthen are shorten, curtail, and abbreviate. These words have distinct meanings and can be used in various contexts such as academic writing, business communication, and everyday conversation to convey information clearly and efficiently.