abrupt Definition
- 1sudden and unexpected
- 2rudely brief
Using abrupt: Examples
Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "abrupt" can be used in various situations through the following examples!
Example
The meeting came to an abrupt end when the fire alarm went off.
Example
She gave an abrupt answer and walked away.
Example
The car made an abrupt turn and almost hit the pedestrian.
abrupt Synonyms and Antonyms
Phrases with abrupt
Example
The company's abrupt change in policy caused confusion among its employees.
Example
His abrupt departure from the party surprised everyone.
Example
The roller coaster came to an abrupt halt, causing some passengers to feel dizzy.
Origins of abrupt
from Latin 'abruptus', meaning 'broken off'
Summary: abrupt in Brief
The term 'abrupt' [əˈbrʌpt] describes something sudden and unexpected, or rudely brief. It can refer to events like 'The meeting came to an abrupt end when the fire alarm went off,' or behavior like 'She gave an abrupt answer and walked away.' 'Abrupt' also appears in phrases like 'abrupt change,' 'abrupt departure,' and 'abrupt halt,' all denoting suddenness. Synonyms include 'sudden,' 'unexpected,' and 'precipitous,' while antonyms include 'gradual,' 'gentle,' and 'polite.'