The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook

abrupt

IPA:

Dictionary definition of abrupt

Sudden, unexpected, and marked by an immediate change or sharp transition, often without prior warning or gradual progression.
"He made an abrupt exit from the room without saying goodbye."

Detailed meaning of abrupt

When something is characterized as abrupt, it implies a jarring or unanticipated shift that can disrupt the continuity of a situation or conversation. This term can be applied to various contexts, such as an abrupt halt to a conversation when someone abruptly changes the topic, an abrupt change in weather when a sunny day suddenly turns stormy, or an abrupt decision that is made without prior deliberation. "Abrupt" underscores the idea of an unexpected and often disruptive change, emphasizing the lack of smoothness or gradualness in the transition from one state to another.

Example sentences containing abrupt

1. The abrupt end to the concert left the audience in a state of confusion.
2. His abrupt departure from the party raised a few eyebrows.
3. The car made an abrupt turn, narrowly avoiding the pedestrian.
4. The abrupt change in weather forced us to cancel our picnic.
5. I was taken aback by her abrupt manner of speaking.
6. The abrupt closure of the factory resulted in job loss for many workers.

History and etymology of abrupt

The adjective 'abrupt' has its etymological roots in Latin. It is derived from the Latin word 'abruptus,' which means 'broken off' or 'steep.' In English, 'abrupt' describes something that is sudden, unexpected, and marked by an immediate change or sharp transition, often occurring without prior warning or gradual progression. The term conveys a sense of jarring or unanticipated change, much like encountering a steep drop or a sudden break in a physical landscape. 'Abrupt' is used to characterize events, actions, or transitions that lack smoothness or gradualness, highlighting their abrupt and often disruptive nature.

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Further usage examples of abrupt

1. The movie had an abrupt ending that left viewers wanting more.
2. The hiker was startled by the abrupt drop at the edge of the trail.
3. His abrupt decision to quit was shocking to all of us.
4. The conversation came to an abrupt halt when he entered the room.
5. She had an abrupt way of interrupting that was rather rude.
6. The bus came to an abrupt stop, causing the passengers to jolt forward.
7. An abrupt change in the business strategy took everyone by surprise.
8. His abrupt refusal to cooperate further complicated the situation.
9. The abrupt shift in tone in the novel was disorienting.
10. The project faced an abrupt termination due to lack of funding.
11. The driver's abrupt acceleration gave me a bit of a fright.
12. The cityscape ended in an abrupt line where the desert began.
13. She was startled by the bird's abrupt departure from the tree.
14. The abrupt silence following the loud noise was eerie.
15. She was taken aback by the abrupt change in plans.
16. The hike was marked by an abrupt change in terrain.
17. He made an abrupt stop at the red light, causing the driver behind him to brake sharply.
18. She was surprised by the abrupt end to the conversation.
19. The company announced an abrupt shift in strategy.
20. He made an abrupt turn and missed his exit on the highway.
21. She was taken aback by the abruptness of his tone.
22. The meeting was interrupted by an abrupt power outage.
23. He made an abrupt decision to quit his job without giving notice.
24. She was startled by the abrupt loud noise from the construction site.
25. The story had an abrupt ending, leaving many questions unanswered.