Abrupt: meaning, definitions and examples

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abrupt

 

[ əˈbrʌpt ]

Adjective / Noun
Context #1 | Adjective

sudden change

1. Happening or done quickly and unexpectedly. 2. Brief to the point of rudeness; curt. 3. Characterized by an unexpected change in a situation.

Synonyms

abruptly, sharp, sudden, unexpected

Examples of usage

  • She received an abrupt reply to her email.
  • He was known for his abrupt manner of speaking.
  • The abrupt weather change caught everyone off guard.
Context #2 | Noun

geology

1. A steep cliff, typically one formed by erosion.

Synonyms

cliff, drop off, precipice

Examples of usage

  • The hikers had to navigate around the abrupts to reach the summit.

Translations

Translations of the word "abrupt" in other languages:

🇵🇹 abrupto

🇮🇳 अचानक

🇩🇪 abrupt

🇮🇩 mendadak

🇺🇦 різкий

🇵🇱 nagły

🇯🇵 突然の

🇫🇷 abrupt

🇪🇸 abrupto

🇹🇷 ani

🇰🇷 갑작스러운

🇸🇦 فجائي

🇨🇿 náhlý

🇸🇰 náhly

🇨🇳 突然的

🇸🇮 nenaden

🇮🇸 skyndilegur

🇰🇿 кенеттен

🇬🇪 უეცარი

🇦🇿 kəskin

🇲🇽 abrupto

Etymology

The word 'abrupt' originated from the Latin word 'abruptus', meaning broken off or steep. It has been used in the English language since the 16th century. The term evolved to describe sudden or unexpected changes due to its association with steep cliffs and sharp edges. Over time, 'abrupt' has become a common adjective used to depict swift and unforeseen events or behaviors.

See also: abruptly, abruptness.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #8,478 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.