ABRUPT
Dictionary entry overview: What does abrupt mean?
• ABRUPT (adjective)
The adjective ABRUPT has 4 senses:
1. marked by sudden changes in subject and sharp transitions
2. exceedingly sudden and unexpected
3. extremely steep
4. surprisingly and unceremoniously brusque in manner
Familiarity information: ABRUPT used as an adjective is uncommon.
Dictionary entry details
• ABRUPT (adjective)
Meaning:
Marked by sudden changes in subject and sharp transitions
Synonyms:
abrupt; disconnected
Context example:
abrupt prose
Similar:
disconnected; staccato ((music) marked by or composed of disconnected parts or sounds; cut short crisply)
Meaning:
Exceedingly sudden and unexpected
Context examples:
came to an abrupt stop / an abrupt change in the weather
Similar:
sudden (happening without warning or in a short space of time)
Meaning:
Extremely steep
Synonyms:
abrupt; precipitous; sharp
Context examples:
an abrupt canyon / the precipitous rapids of the upper river / the precipitous hills of Chinese paintings / a sharp drop
Similar:
steep (having a sharp inclination)
Meaning:
Surprisingly and unceremoniously brusque in manner
Context example:
an abrupt reply
Similar:
discourteous (showing no courtesy; rude)
