Cancel Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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cancel

[ˈkænsəl ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Verb}

reservation

To decide or announce that (a planned event) will not take place.

Synonyms

abandon, call off, postpone, scrub.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
cancel	Use 'cancel' when you want to completely stop a planned event or action. The meeting was cancelled due to bad weather. They decided to cancel their subscription.
call off	Use 'call off' as a more informal way to say you are cancelling an event or action that was planned. The match was called off because of rain. They called off the search for the missing dog.
abandon	Use 'abandon' when you are leaving an effort, activity, or place permanently, often without intending to return, and it may have a negative connotation. The project was abandoned after funding ran out. She abandoned her car in the middle of the road.
scrub	Use 'scrub' in more technical or informal settings, often referring to canceling something due to operational or logistical issues. The launch was scrubbed due to technical difficulties. They had to scrub the mission at the last minute.
postpone	Use 'postpone' when you decide to delay an event or action to a later time. The meeting was postponed until next week. They postponed their trip due to the pandemic.

Examples of usage

The concert was canceled due to bad weather.
I had to cancel my hotel reservation because of a family emergency.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

order

An order for goods or services that is canceled before it is fulfilled or delivered.

Synonyms

annulment, revocation, voiding.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
cancel	General use for stopping something that was planned, such as meetings, appointments, or subscriptions. We had to cancel our dinner plans because of the rain. I decided to cancel my gym membership.
revocation	Formal or legal term for taking back or cancelling privileges, rights, or licenses. His driver's license faced revocation after multiple infractions. The government announced the revocation of the suspect's visa.
annulment	Legal context, especially referring to the invalidation of a marriage or contract. The couple sought an annulment after six months of marriage. The contract was found to be invalid, leading to its annulment.
voiding	Legal or formal use, often implying that something is made legally null and without effect. The court ruled in favor of voiding the previous agreement. The software company voided all fraudulent licenses.

Examples of usage

I received a cancellation for my online purchase.
The airline offered a full refund for the cancellation of my flight.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Legal Significance

In law, a 'cancellation' often refers to voiding contracts or agreements, a critical aspect in business transactions.
Cancellation of debt can free individuals from financial burdens, demonstrating its significance in economics.

Pop Culture

The phrase 'cancel culture' has risen in popularity, referring to the practice of withdrawing support for public figures after they have done or said something controversial.
Many movies and TV shows have incorporated storylines where characters need to 'cancel plans' for comedic effect.

Psychology

Canceling plans can be linked to anxiety or stress, as people sometimes back out to create comfort during overwhelming times.
The act of canceling allows for personal boundaries, helping individuals prioritize mental health.

Technology

In software, a 'cancel' button provides users the power to stop processes, enhancing user experience and control.
Online subscriptions often allow cancellations as a means to provide customers flexibility and ease in their services.

Origin of 'cancel'

Main points about word origin

The word comes from the Latin 'cancellare', which means 'to cross out'.
First appeared in English during the late 14th century, originally referring to a legal term to void an agreement.

The word 'cancel' originated from the Latin word 'cancellare', meaning 'to make square by lines'. In English, it initially referred to marking or crossing out writing to void it. Over time, the meaning evolved to include the idea of calling off or discontinuing something. The term gained popularity in modern usage, particularly in the context of canceling events, orders, or plans.

See also: cancellation, canceller, cancelling.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #8,211 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.

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8208 tort
8209 periphery
8210 substituting
8211 cancel
8212 obtainable
8213 reinforce
8214 discovering
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