Curtailed Meaning: Definition and Examples
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curtailed
[kərˈteɪld ]
Definition
reduced duration
Curtailed means to shorten something by reducing its extent or duration. This can refer to actions, events, or processes that are cut short intentionally or as a result of circumstances. The word often implies a limitation imposed on what was previously planned or expected. It can be used in both formal and informal contexts, particularly when discussing policies, budgets, or events that have been abbreviated.
Synonyms
abridged, diminished, reduced, shortened.
Examples of usage
- The meeting was curtailed due to time constraints.
- His budget was curtailed by unexpected expenses.
- The festival was curtailed because of bad weather.
Interesting Facts
Legal Context
- In legal terms, 'curtail' often refers to reducing a privilege or right, such as a curtailment in a contract.
- Curtailment can affect laws governing civil liberties, as certain actions may limit individual freedoms.
- The concept is also present in discussions about budget cuts or limitations imposed by governments.
Business and Economics
- Businesses might curtail operations during economic downturns to reduce costs and maintain profitability.
- In economics, curtailing spending can be a strategy to control inflation or manage a financial crisis.
- Companies might curtail their workforce during layoffs, which impacts employee morale and productivity.
Cultural Impact
- The COVID-19 pandemic led to the curtailment of public gatherings and events, affecting cultural activities globally.
- Artists often face curtailment in creative freedom due to societal expectations or censorship.
- Historically, curtailment has been associated with revolutions, where groups sought to limit oppressive systems.
Literature
- In literature, themes of curtailment often involve characters who experience restrictions in their lives, reflecting personal growth or change.
- Famous works might portray curtailment as a symbol for lost opportunities or the struggle against limitations.
- The act of curtailing a narrative can create suspense or urgency in storytelling.
Origin of 'curtailed'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'curtare', meaning to cut down or shorten.
- It evolved through Old French 'curtailer', which was often used in relation to cutting the tail of horses, hence the theme of reduction.
- The term was initially related to physical shortening before it expanded to other contexts.
The word 'curtail' comes from the Middle French 'courteler,' which means to cut short or cut off. This, in turn, is derived from the Old French 'cort,' meaning short. The term made its way into English in the late 14th century. It originally referred to the physical act of cutting something, but over time it evolved to have a broader application, including abstract contexts such as time, events, and resources. The usage of the word has continually expanded, making 'curtail' a versatile term that is often used in discussions related to reductions, limitations, or constraints imposed on various aspects of life, such as governmental policies, budgets, and personal activities.