The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook

abeyance

IPA:

Dictionary definition of abeyance

A state of temporary suspension or inactivity, typically applied to legal rights, actions, or processes.
"The project was put in abeyance while they looked for more funding."

Detailed meaning of abeyance

When something is in abeyance, it means that it is not currently in effect or operation but is temporarily on hold or pending further action or decision. This term is often used in legal contexts to describe situations where a legal claim, judgment, or process has been temporarily set aside or deferred, awaiting clarification, resolution, or future events. Additionally, "abeyance" can be used in broader contexts to convey a state of dormancy or temporary pause in various aspects of life, such as business ventures or personal plans. It underscores the idea of a temporary hiatus or suspension, often implying the expectation of eventual reactivation or resolution.

Example sentences containing abeyance

1. The project was put in abeyance until further funding could be secured.
2. The negotiations were held in abeyance pending the outcome of the legal dispute.
3. The decision to suspend the construction was made, leaving the project in abeyance.
4. The new policy was announced but kept in abeyance until its impact could be assessed.
5. The company's expansion plans were temporarily held in abeyance due to market uncertainties.
6. The court case was in abeyance while the judge reviewed additional evidence.

History and etymology of abeyance

The noun 'abeyance' has its origins in Old French, where it was spelled as 'abeance' or 'abeance.' It is believed to have been influenced by the Old French word 'bayer,' meaning 'to gape' or 'to remain open.' In its early usage, 'abeyance' referred to a state of temporary suspension or inactivity, often applied to legal rights, actions, or processes. It conveys the idea of something being held in a state of expectancy or being kept open, awaiting further action or resolution. The etymology of 'abeyance' reflects the concept of something being held open or remaining in a state of suspension, emphasizing the idea that certain legal rights or processes are temporarily on hold until a future decision or event occurs.

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Further usage examples of abeyance

1. The proposed merger was put in abeyance as the regulatory authorities conducted their investigation.
2. The employee's promotion was kept in abeyance pending a performance review.
3. The implementation of the new software system was placed in abeyance due to technical issues.
4. The contract renewal was kept in abeyance until both parties could resolve their contractual disputes.
5. The decision to proceed with the project was held in abeyance until the financial forecasts were revised.
6. The resolution of the conflict was left in abeyance as the parties sought mediation.
7. The changes to the company's organizational structure were put in abeyance to avoid disruption.
8. The announcement of the new product launch was kept in abeyance to coincide with a marketing campaign.
9. The suspension of the employee's duties was in abeyance pending an internal investigation.
10. The implementation of the policy changes was placed in abeyance to allow for employee feedback.
11. The proposed legislation was in abeyance as lawmakers debated its potential implications.
12. The decision regarding the investment was held in abeyance until the economic conditions improved.
13. The project timeline was adjusted, placing certain tasks in abeyance until resource constraints were resolved.
14. The resolution of the contract dispute was left in abeyance until both parties could reach a settlement.