abrupt
uh-BRUPT
/əˈbrʌpt/
Sudden and unexpected, often in a way that is unpleasant or rude.
While 'sudden' is neutral, 'abrupt' often implies a lack of transition or a 'broken' flow, sometimes suggesting a lack of courtesy.
The story behind the word. From the Latin 'ab-' (away) and 'rumpere' (to break). It literally describes something that has been 'broken off' from the rest, like a cliff face that drops off suddenly rather than sloping down.
Word relationships
- sudden: 'Sudden' is the general term; 'abrupt' is more jarring and often implies a lack of social grace.
- curt: 'Curt' specifically refers to being abrupt in speech or manner, usually to the point of rudeness.
- gradual: Moving or changing by small degrees rather than all at once.
- leisurely: Acting or moving without haste.
Commonly confused with
- precipitate: 'Abrupt' describes the speed/nature of the change; 'precipitate' describes the action of causing it to happen too quickly.
Word family
- abruptly (adverb): In a sudden or unexpected manner.
- abruptness (noun): The quality of being sudden or blunt.
Collocations
- abrupt end
- abrupt change
- abrupt departure
- abrupt manner
Example sentences
- "The abruptness of the change was startling." Describing a sudden change in behavior in literature.
- "The bus came to an abrupt halt, sending passengers leaning forward in their seats." A sudden stop in motion.
Memory hook
Think of a 'rupture' (break). An abrupt change is a break in the normal flow of things. A break (rupt) in the action.
When not to use
Do not use 'abrupt' for a planned, smooth change; it implies a jarring disconnect.
Fun facts
- In geology, an 'abrupt' contact is a boundary between two rock layers that shows no transition.
Related words
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