cessation
seh-SAY-shuhn
/sɛˈseɪʃən/
The fact or process of ending or being brought to an end.
Implies a finality or a complete stopping of an activity, often used in the context of war or habits.
The story behind the word. Derived from the Latin 'cessare,' meaning to delay or stop. It is a cousin to the word 'cease.'
Word relationships
- termination: 'Termination' sounds more like a deliberate cut-off; 'cessation' is the general state of ending.
- commencement: 'Commencement' is the formal start of something.
Commonly confused with
- halt: A 'halt' is a sudden stop in movement; a 'cessation' is the end of an ongoing state or activity.
Word family
- cease (verb): To stop.
- ceaseless (adjective): Never-ending.
Collocations
- cessation of hostilities
- smoking cessation
- complete cessation
Example sentences
- "The treaty called for an immediate cessation of hostilities on both sides of the border." Ending a war.
- "Smoking cessation programs are highly effective when combined with counseling." Quitting a habit.
Memory hook
Think of a 'Cessation' as the 'Sensation' of everything finally stopping. The final stop.
When not to use
Not for a temporary pause; use 'hiatus' or 'suspension' if it will start again.
Fun facts
- The phrase 'cease and desist' is a legal double-down, using two words that essentially mean the same thing to ensure clarity.
Related words
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