terminate
TUR-mi-nayt
/ˈtɜːrmɪneɪt/
To bring to an end; to dismiss from employment.
In an employment context, it's a formal and often euphemistic way of saying "fire." It can also mean to end a contract or process.
The story behind the word. "Terminate" comes from the Latin verb terminare, meaning "to limit, to bound, to end." This root is also found in words like "term" (a period of time with a definite end) and "terminus" (an end point). So, to terminate something is quite literally to bring it to its boundary or conclusion.
Word relationships
- fire: More direct and informal, specifically for employment.
- dismiss: Similar to 'terminate' in formality for employment, but can also mean to send away.
- end: Broader term, less specific to employment.
- hire: To give someone a job.
- begin: To start something.
Commonly confused with
- resign: 'Terminate' is usually involuntary (employer's decision), 'resign' is voluntary (employee's decision).
Word family
- termination (noun): The act of ending something or being dismissed from employment.
Collocations
- terminate employment
- terminate a contract
- terminate a project
- terminate a pregnancy
Example sentences
- "The company decided to terminate his employment due to repeated breaches of contract." Ending employment.
- "We must terminate the negotiations if an agreement cannot be reached by Friday." Ending a process.
Memory hook
Think of a terminator robot whose mission is to terminate (end) its target. End it.
When not to use
Avoid using 'terminate' when someone resigns; it implies an employer's decision.
Fun facts
- The word "terminus" is often used for the final station on a railway line or bus route.
Related words
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