Discontinue: meaning, definitions and examples

Use when something that is currently ongoing is intentionally stopped. Often used in formal or business contexts, such as products, services, or programs.

• The company decided to discontinue the outdated software.
• The magazine will discontinue its print edition next year.

It implies a sudden or temporary stop, often used in situations requiring immediate action or intervention.

• The train came to a sudden halt.
• The police ordered the protesters to halt their march.

Typically used in formal or legal contexts to mean ending something permanently, such as contracts or employment. It often carries a strong and definitive connotation with potential negative implications.

• The company decided to terminate his contract.
• Her employment was terminated due to gross misconduct.

This word is used to indicate a complete stop of an action or activity, typically more formal and dramatic. It can also imply an order or a necessity to stop.

• Hostilities between the two countries must cease immediately.
• Production ceased due to a lack of funds.

Appropriate for concluding something that had a planned duration or goal, such as events, periods, or relationships.

• The movie ends with a surprising twist.
• They decided to end their partnership amicably.

Used when formally stopping a service, product, or activity permanently.

• The company decided to discontinue the old software version
• The product line will be discontinued next month

A general term used when ceasing any action or process. It is straightforward and can apply to many situations.

• Please stop talking
• They stopped working on the project

Implies a temporary halt with the possibility of resuming later. Often used in official or formal contexts.

• The meeting was suspended until further notice
• His license was suspended for six months

Used when stopping an event or an arrangement that has been planned, often before it has begun.

• The concert was canceled due to bad weather
• They had to cancel their vacation plans

Implies leaving something completely, often due to its difficulty, danger, or hopelessness. It has a more emotional or dramatic tone and can have a negative connotation.

• She had to abandon her car due to the flood
• They abandoned the project when they ran out of funds