Terminating Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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terminating

[ˈtɜːrmɪˌneɪtɪŋ ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

in computing

Causing a program or process to end or stop running.

Synonyms

concluding, ending, stopping.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
terminating

Used in formal or technical contexts, often when ending a contract, process, or service.

  • The company is terminating the contract due to non-compliance.
  • Termination of the program occurred at midnight.
ending

Used in general contexts when something is coming to its natural or intended final point.

  • The movie has a surprising ending.
  • The semester is ending next week.
concluding

Used when wrapping up events, discussions, or periods of time in a complete and often formal manner.

  • The meeting concluded with a summary of the main points.
  • After concluding her speech, she received a standing ovation.
stopping

Used in informal contexts when halting an action, activity, or motion, often temporarily.

  • I need to stop by the store on my way home.
  • Can you stop making that noise, please?

Examples of usage

  • The terminating error caused the program to crash.
  • The terminating function ended the loop.
Context #2 | Verb

in relationships

Ending a relationship, usually in a formal or official way.

Synonyms

break up, end, finish.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
terminating

Use this term in formal or technical contexts, especially in business or legal scenarios.

  • The company is terminating the contract due to numerous breaches of terms
end

A general term suitable for most contexts where something is coming to a conclusion. It is versatile and can be used in personal, professional, or casual situations.

  • The movie will end in an hour
  • The school year ends in June
finish

Typically used to describe the completion of a task, activity, or process. It can apply to both tangible and intangible activities.

  • Please finish your homework before dinner
  • She finished reading the book in one night
break up

This term is commonly used in interpersonal relationships to describe the ending of a romantic relationship. It can also be used informally to describe the dissolution of groups or teams.

  • After dating for five years, they decided to break up

Examples of usage

  • She decided to terminate her contract with the company.
  • The couple mutually agreed to terminate their marriage.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Legal Context

  • In legal terms, 'terminating' often refers to ending a contract or agreement.
  • Termination notices are used to inform parties that an agreement will no longer be in effect.
  • Wrongful termination can lead to legal disputes between employers and employees.

Technology

  • In computing, 'terminating' refers to stopping a process or shutting down software.
  • Network protocols may use commands to terminate connections, ensuring data is safely closed.
  • The term also applies in programming to describe ending loops or functions.

Biology

  • In biology, terminating can refer to the end of a cell's life cycle, such as apoptosis, where cells self-destruct.
  • In species conservation, terminating certain practices can help protect endangered species.
  • Certain drugs can terminate infections or diseases by stopping their progress in the body.

Pop Culture

  • The movie 'Terminator' popularized the idea of machines that can terminate humans, merging action with technology themes.
  • Video games often have 'terminating' quests or missions where players must end villains or challenges.
  • In literature, stories about endings frequently deal with themes of closure and new beginnings.

Origin of 'terminating'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'terminare', which means 'to limit or end'.
  • In the 14th century, it began to be used in English to describe the act of ending something.
  • It has also been associated with the word 'terminal', which refers to endings or final points.

The word 'terminate' originated from the Latin word 'terminatus', which means 'bounded' or 'limited'. It entered the English language in the late 16th century. Over time, 'terminate' has come to be used in various contexts, including computing and relationships, to signify the act of ending or stopping something.


See also: terminated.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #8,975 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.