Expiry: meaning, definitions and examples

Add to dictionary

expiry

 

[ ɪkˈspaɪəri ]

Noun / Verb
Context #1 | Noun

date

The termination or end of a fixed period for which a contract, agreement, or license is valid.

Synonyms

end, expiration, termination.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
expiry

Used mostly in British English to refer to the date when something, such as a product or an agreement, is no longer valid.

  • Check the expiry date on your driver's license.
  • The milk has passed its expiry, so we should throw it away.
expiration

More commonly used in American English, refers to the date when something, such as a product or an agreement, becomes invalid or unsuitable for use.

  • What is the expiration date on this yogurt?
  • The contract's expiration will be next month.
end

A general term used to refer to the conclusion or final part of something. It can be used in various contexts.

  • The end of the movie was very touching.
  • He stayed until the end of the meeting.
termination

Often used in formal or legal contexts to indicate the act of bringing something to an end, especially in employment, contracts, or other agreements. Usually has a negative connotation.

  • The company announced the termination of 200 employees.
  • Termination of the contract will occur if the terms are not met.

Examples of usage

  • The expiry date on my passport is approaching.
  • The expiry of the insurance policy is next month.
Context #2 | Noun

product

The end of the shelf life of a product, after which it should not be used.

Synonyms

expiration, shelf life, use by date.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
expiry

Commonly used in British English to indicate the end of a period of validity for documents, subscriptions, or offers.

  • Check the expiry date on your driver's license.
  • The expiry of the coupon is next week.
expiration

More frequently used in American English, similar to 'expiry', to refer to the end of an official period of validity for documents, agreements, or offers.

  • The expiration date of the contract is December 31st.
  • The expiration on this medication is in March.
use by date

Shows the last date recommended for the safe use of perishable products, often food and beverages. This is crucial for health and safety.

  • Do not consume this yogurt past the use by date.
  • Make sure to check the use by date before buying dairy products.
shelf life

Typically refers to the length of time that food, beverages, or other perishable goods can be stored before becoming unsuitable for use or consumption.

  • Canned foods have a long shelf life.
  • The shelf life of fresh vegetables is usually quite short.

Examples of usage

  • Check the expiry date on the milk carton before consuming it.
  • The expiry of the medication is clearly marked on the packaging.
Context #3 | Verb

document

To come to the end of the validity or duration of a document, agreement, or license.

Synonyms

end, lapse, terminate.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

arrow down
Word Description / Examples
expiry

Used when referring to the date or time when something, such as a document or product, is no longer valid or safe to use.

  • Check the expiry date on the milk before drinking it.
  • The expiry of the contract is next month.
terminate

Generally used in formal settings, referring to bringing something to an end deliberately, often in the context of agreements, contracts, or employment. It may carry a slightly negative connotation depending on the context.

  • The company decided to terminate his contract immediately.
  • We will terminate the service at the end of the month.
end

General term for the point in time when something stops. It can be used in both formal and informal situations.

  • The end of the movie made everyone cry.
  • We need to be prepared for the end of the project.
lapse

Usually used for temporary failures, breaks in time, or when a certain period ends without required action, often with a slightly negative connotation.

  • She apologized for the lapse in her judgment.
  • The insurance policy will lapse if you don't make a payment.

Examples of usage

  • His driving license is about to expire.
  • Make sure to renew your membership before it expires.

Translations

Translations of the word "expiry" in other languages:

🇵🇹 validade

🇮🇳 समाप्ति

🇩🇪 Ablauf

🇮🇩 kedaluwarsa

🇺🇦 закінчення терміну

🇵🇱 wygaśnięcie

🇯🇵 有効期限

🇫🇷 expiration

🇪🇸 vencimiento

🇹🇷 son kullanma tarihi

🇰🇷 만료

🇸🇦 انتهاء الصلاحية

🇨🇿 vypršení

🇸🇰 vypršanie

🇨🇳 过期

🇸🇮 potek

🇮🇸 gildistími

🇰🇿 мерзімі өту

🇬🇪 ვადა

🇦🇿 müddəti

🇲🇽 vencimiento

Etymology

The word 'expiry' originated from the Latin word 'expirare', which means 'to breathe out' or 'to come to an end'. Over time, the term evolved to refer to the end or termination of a fixed period, contract, agreement, or license. The concept of expiry is essential in various aspects of life, including legal documents, product safety, and personal identification. Understanding the expiry of things helps individuals make informed decisions and ensures compliance with regulations.

See also: expiration, expire.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #16,840, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.