Closure: meaning, definitions and examples

Often used to describe a sense of emotional or psychological completion or release after a difficult event or process.

• She needed closure after the breakup.
• The lawsuit’s settlement brought closure to the family.

Typically used to refer to the final part of something written or spoken, such as an essay, speech, or argument, where everything comes together.

• In conclusion, we must protect our environment.
• The conclusion of the book was unexpected.

Refers to the act of solving a problem or dispute; often used in the context of stories, conflicts, or personal goals.

• The resolution of their conflict took weeks.
• Her New Year's resolution was to exercise more.

Used to describe the final part of a story, movie, or any narrative. It focuses more on the act of something coming to a stop.

• The movie had a happy ending.
• They didn't like the ending of the play.

Best used to describe the psychological resolution or conclusion of an experience, often a difficult or traumatic one. It implies finding an ending that brings peace or understanding.

• She found closure after talking to a therapist about her past.
• The community sought closure after the tragic event.

Commonly used in the context of recovery or getting better after a physical, emotional, or psychological injury. It involves a process of improvement and often implies a gradual return to a healthier state.

• The retreat was a place for emotional healing.
• Time and care are essential for physical healing.

Appropriate when talking about coming to terms with a reality or situation, often one that cannot be changed. It suggests a mental or emotional process of acknowledging and embracing a fact or state of being.

• His acceptance of the diagnosis was the first step toward coping.
• She reached acceptance of her new life circumstances.

Typically used to describe the process of returning to a normal or improved state after an illness, injury, or difficult situation. It indicates progress and regaining what was lost.

• His recovery after the surgery was remarkably quick.
• She worked hard on her recovery from the accident.

Used when something, like a store or a road, is closing down for good or temporarily.

• The store announced its closure at the end of the month
• The road closure will last for two weeks

This word describes when a business, operation, or government services stop functioning, often temporary and can carry a negative implication.

• The factory will experience a temporary shutdown during the holiday season
• The government shutdown affected many public services

Often used in formal contexts to describe the stopping of an activity or process, particularly in legal, medical, or technical contexts.

• There was an immediate cessation of hostilities
• The doctor recommended the cessation of smoking to improve health

Commonly used in professional or contractual settings to indicate the end of a contract, service, or employment, often with a formal tone.

• He faced termination due to repeated misconduct
• The termination of the contract was effective immediately