1. Cancel (verb): To decide or announce that a planned event, agreement, or action will no longer take place.
2. Cancel (verb): To nullify or make something void, such as a document, payment, or subscription.
3. Cancel (verb): To neutralize or counterbalance the effect of something.
4. Cancel (noun): An act of stopping, voiding, or neutralizing something.
The term "cancel" is a versatile word commonly used to denote the cessation, nullification, or neutralization of actions, plans, or effects. It applies in both literal and figurative contexts, from stopping subscriptions to countering arguments. Dive into the sections below for an in-depth exploration of its meanings and uses.
The word "cancel" refers to the act of stopping something from proceeding, invalidating it, or countering its effects. Its definitions cover both concrete and abstract applications, from practical actions to symbolic gestures.
"Cancel" often refers to the decision to call off an event, agreement, or action, making it null and void. This is common in contexts like events, subscriptions, or contracts.
In another usage, "cancel" signifies the action of counteracting or offsetting something, such as canceling out noise or neutralizing opposing arguments.
As a noun, "cancel" describes the instance or act of voiding or stopping something.
The word "cancel" functions both as a verb and a noun. As a verb, it refers to the action of voiding, nullifying, or stopping something. As a noun, it describes the result or act of canceling, though this usage is less common.
The pronunciation of "cancel" is straightforward, consisting of two syllables. Here’s a guide:
The first syllable, /ˈkæn/, sounds like "can" with a short "a." The second syllable, /səl/, has a soft "s" sound followed by a schwa vowel, similar to "sul" in "pencil."
Phonetic Pronunciation: /ˈkæn.səl/
Here are some common synonyms for "cancel," categorized by usage:
The antonyms of "cancel" highlight the continuation or confirmation of actions or plans:
Here are ten examples of how "cancel" is used in various contexts:
1. The airline had to cancel the flight due to bad weather.
2. She decided to cancel her gym membership after a year of inactivity.
3. The teacher announced that they would cancel the quiz and reschedule it.
4. His witty remark managed to cancel the tension in the room.
5. The company had to cancel the product launch due to supply chain issues.
6. Please cancel my subscription before the next billing cycle.
7. He tried to cancel out the noise by wearing earplugs.
8. The government moved to cancel outdated laws that were no longer relevant.
9. If you fail to meet the terms, the bank can cancel your credit line.
10. They had no choice but to cancel the meeting after the power outage.
The term "cancel" is highly prevalent in both written and spoken English. It is frequently used in business, technology, legal contexts, and everyday conversations. With the rise of digital services, phrases like "cancel subscription" or "cancel membership" have become especially common.
The term "cancel" has several variants and related forms:
Here are terms closely related to "cancel":
The word "cancel" originates from the Latin word cancellare, meaning "to cross out or mark with lattice lines." It entered Middle English through Old French, retaining its original sense of invalidating or annulling. Over time, its usage expanded to include the modern meanings of stopping plans or neutralizing effects.
The word "cancel" has given rise to various derivatives and compounds:
Here are some common misspellings of "cancel":
Here are idioms that convey the idea of stopping, nullifying, or neutralizing:
Here are frequently asked questions about "cancel":
1. What does "cancel" mean?
It means to stop, void, or nullify a planned event, action, or agreement.
2. What is the past tense of "cancel"?
The past tense is "canceled" in American English and "cancelled" in British English.
3. How do you use "cancel" in a sentence?
Example: "They decided to cancel the concert due to bad weather."
4. What does "cancel culture" mean?
It refers to the practice of withdrawing support or attention from public figures or entities for perceived wrongdoing.
5. Is "cancel" always negative?
Not necessarily; it can be neutral or positive, depending on the context.
6. Can "cancel" refer to mathematical operations?
Yes, in math, "cancel" refers to reducing fractions or nullifying terms in equations.
7. What are common synonyms for "cancel"?
Synonyms include "revoke," "annul," and "terminate."
8. How is "cancel" used in digital contexts?
It is often used to describe stopping subscriptions, orders, or processes online.
9. What is "cancellation"?
It is the act or process of canceling something.
10. What does "cancel out" mean?
It means to neutralize or counteract an effect or action.
The word "cancel" encapsulates the act of stopping, voiding, or neutralizing something. Its versatility makes it applicable in various contexts, from daily interactions to technical settings. Exploring its meanings and uses enhances understanding and communication. Continue learning about language to broaden your vocabulary and precision.
