Abandonment: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when someone leaves someone or something permanently, often in a legal or serious emotional context.

• The abandonment of pets is a serious issue in many cities
• Her feelings of abandonment after her parents' divorce were very strong

Often used in a literary or emotional context, indicating intentional abandonment, sometimes for a greater cause.

• He felt as though he was forsaking his family by moving abroad
• Forsaking her dreams, she decided to stay in her hometown

Typically used in military or legal contexts, when someone leaves a duty or post without permission.

• The soldier faced charges of desertion after leaving his post
• Desertion from the battlefield is considered a serious crime

Used when someone or something is not accepted, often in social, professional, or romantic contexts. Can carry a negative connotation.

• His job application faced rejection
• She felt deep rejection after being excluded from the group

This word appears twice, so it shares the same explanation as above.

• The abandonment of the building led to its deterioration.

Often used in a business or medical context to indicate that something, like a product or service, is no longer being produced or offered.

• The discontinuation of the medication caused concerns among patients.
• Due to low sales, the company announced the discontinuation of the product.

Used to signify the end of something, often employment, contracts, or processes. It has a formal tone and can sometimes carry a negative connotation.

• The termination of the contract was unexpected.
• After a series of issues, the company decided on the termination of his employment.

Used for situations where someone refuses or denies themselves something, often for moral or religious reasons. It has a more formal and self-sacrificing connotation.

• His abnegation of luxury items impressed his peers.
• Through abnegation, she managed to lead a life devoted to charity.