Abruptness Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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abruptness
[əˈbrʌptnəs ]
Definitions
in behavior
The quality of being sudden or unexpected in an unpleasant way.
Synonyms
bluntness, curtness, rudeness.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| abruptness |
Used to describe a sudden or unexpected change in manner or speech, which can be startling or surprising.
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| rudeness |
Used when someone is intentionally disrespectful or inconsiderate in their speech or actions. This always has a negative connotation.
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| bluntness |
Refers to speaking in a straightforward and honest manner, sometimes without considering the feelings of others. This can sometimes have a negative connotation depending on the situation.
|
| curtness |
Describes speech that is brief and to the point, often to the extent of seeming rude or unfriendly.
|
Examples of usage
- His abruptness in the meeting offended many colleagues.
- She was taken aback by the abruptness of his departure.
in speech
The quality of being brief and to the point, sometimes in a way that may seem rude.
Synonyms
brusqueness, conciseness, terse-ness.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| abruptness |
Use this when referring to someone or something that is sudden and unexpected. It might give a sense of rudeness or lack of smoothness.
|
| conciseness |
Ideal for situations where precision and brevity are valued. It implies delivering information in a clear, straightforward manner without unnecessary details.
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| terse-ness |
This word is useful when emphasizing that something or someone is brief and to the point, often in a way that might seem unfriendly or rude.
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| brusqueness |
This word is suitable when describing someone who is blunt or curt in manner, often bordering on rude or impatient.
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Examples of usage
- His abruptness in his speech made it difficult for others to engage in conversation with him.
- Her abruptness can be mistaken for lack of interest.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Abruptness in communication can lead to misunderstandings, as sudden changes can confuse listeners.
- People often react more strongly to abrupt changes due to heightened emotional responses, triggering stress or anxiety.
Literature
- Abruptness is often used in storytelling to create tension or surprise, emphasizing a character's emotional state.
- Authors may employ abrupt transitions in narratives to reflect the chaotic nature of life's events.
Communication
- In conversation, being abrupt can be perceived as rude or dismissive, affecting relationships.
- Effective communicators often strive to balance clarity and tact, avoiding abruptness to foster understanding.
Nature
- In nature, abrupt changes can occur suddenly, such as a steep drop in land or rapid weather shifts affecting the environment.
- Certain phenomena, like earthquakes, exemplify abruptness with their unexpected onset and significant impact.
Origin of 'abruptness'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'abruptus', meaning 'broken off' or 'sudden'.
- It has roots that imply a sharp edge or a quick change, reflecting the suddenness it describes.
The word 'abruptness' originated from the Latin word 'abruptus', meaning broken off. It first appeared in the English language in the late 16th century. Over time, the word has evolved to encompass both the meanings of suddenness and briefness, reflecting its dual nature in behavior and speech.