sunset
SUN-set
/ˈsʌnsɛt/
(v) To phase out or discontinue (a product, service, or policy) over time. (n) The formal ending of a program, product, or policy.
In business and technology, "sunset" is a metaphorical term for a planned, gradual discontinuation or end-of-life for a product or service. It implies a managed transition, not an abrupt halt.
The story behind the word. The word "sunset" literally describes the daily disappearance of the sun below the horizon. Its metaphorical use in business and technology, meaning to phase out or discontinue a product or service, emerged in the late 20th century. Just as the sun gradually dips below the horizon, a product "sunsets" by slowly fading out of active support or production, with a planned end date.
Word relationships
- phase out: To gradually stop using or providing something.
- discontinue: To cease doing, providing, or producing (something).
- retire: To withdraw from use or service.
- launch: To start or set in motion (an activity or enterprise).
- initiate: To cause (something) to begin.
- revive: To restore to life or consciousness.
Commonly confused with
- discontinue: "Sunset" implies a planned, often gradual, phasing out. "Discontinue" can be more abrupt or simply mean to stop.
Word family
- sunsetting (noun): the act of phasing out.
Collocations
- sunset a product
- sunset a policy
- sunset clause
- sunset date
- sunset plan
Example sentences
- "The company decided to sunset its legacy software platform by the end of the year, migrating all users to the new cloud service." Explaining a company's product strategy.
- "The government announced the sunset of the tax credit program after five years." Referring to government policy.
- "We need to create a clear sunset plan for the old servers." Discussing IT infrastructure planning.
Memory hook
Think of the sun setting on a product – it's a beautiful, natural end, but an end nonetheless. Sun setting, end
When not to use
Don't use "sunset" for an accidental or unplanned cessation. It specifically refers to a deliberate, often phased, ending.
Fun facts
- The term "sunset clause" in legislation refers to a provision that automatically terminates a law, agency, or program after a fixed period or on a specific date, unless it is reauthorized.
Related words
Take your vocabulary further with LangBlitz
Our English vocabulary app: FSRS spaced repetition, 5,000+ curated words across 119 topic groups, CEFR A1 to C2. Explore your mastery with the beautiful Vocabulary World feature.