Call off Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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call off
[kɔːl ɒf ]
Definitions
cancel plans or an event
To decide that a planned event will not happen, or to end an activity because it is no longer considered necessary or useful.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| call off |
This term is used when you want to stop an event or action that was previously planned or underway. Often used in situations where something cannot or will not take place.
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| cancel |
This is a general term used when an event, meeting, or plan is officially stopped before it begins. It is straightforward and commonly understood.
|
| abort |
This word is used in more serious or technical contexts, often implying the stopping of a process or mission to prevent negative outcomes. It can sound formal and sometimes dramatic.
|
| postpone |
This word is utilized when an event or action is delayed to a later time instead of completely stopping or canceling it.
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Examples of usage
- The meeting has been called off due to bad weather.
- They called off the wedding at the last minute.
stop or abandon something
To stop doing something or to decide not to continue with a planned action.
Synonyms
cease, discontinue, halt.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| call off |
Typically used to indicate the cancellation of an event, appointment, or planned activity.
|
| halt |
Implying a sudden or immediate stop to an action, movement, or process, often temporary and used in formal or emergency situations.
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| cease |
Formal term for stopping an action or process completely. It can be used in both professional and everyday contexts.
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| discontinue |
Used to indicate the stopping of a product line, service, or activity, usually in business or formal contexts.
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Examples of usage
- The search was called off when it got too dark.
- She called off the engagement after realizing they were not compatible.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Pop Culture
- 'Call Off the Search' is the title of a popular album by singer-songwriter Dido, highlighting the theme of longing and emotional cancellation.
- Movies often depict characters 'calling off' events or plans, such as weddings or parties, to create suspense or dramatic tension.
Business
- In the business world, 'call off' can refer to canceling meetings, contracts, or initiatives, often due to unforeseen circumstances.
- It’s a common term in negotiations where parties might agree to 'call off' an agreement if certain conditions are not met.
Military
- In military operations, a command to 'call off' troops indicates a retreat or cancellation of an assault, often to prevent unnecessary loss.
- The phrase is crucial in operations where timing and careful coordination are essential for safety.
Everyday Life
- People often 'call off' events like dinner parties when they feel unwell or face unexpected situations.
- Sports teams might 'call off' a game if the weather conditions are dangerous, showing flexibility in scheduling.
Origin of 'call off'
Main points about word origin
- The phrase comes from a time when people used 'call' to mean summon or command and 'off' to mean away or stop.
- The use of 'call off' to mean to cancel dates back to the 19th century, becoming more common in the 20th century.
The origin of the phrase 'call off' can be traced back to the early 19th century. It is believed to have originated from the practice of calling off hounds during a fox hunt when the pursued animal goes to ground and cannot be followed. Over time, the phrase evolved to encompass the idea of canceling or stopping an activity or event.