What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
abbreviate
Example
Please abbreviate the word 'department' as 'dept.' in the report. [abbreviate: verb]
Example
NASA is an abbreviation for National Aeronautics and Space Administration. [abbreviation: noun]
shorten
Example
Can you please shorten this essay to 500 words? [shorten: verb]
Example
The speaker had to shorten his speech due to time constraints. [shortened: past participle]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Shorten is more commonly used than abbreviate in everyday language. Shorten is a more general term that can be used in a variety of contexts, while abbreviate is more specific and often used in technical or formal writing.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between abbreviate and shorten?
Abbreviate is typically associated with a more formal tone, while shorten can be used in both formal and informal contexts.
