Synonyms for terminate
Definitions
- v. 1
To end something, especially when left in an incomplete state.
to terminate an effort, or a controversy
Related words
- Word family
- terminable termination terminator terminus
Forms
- Past participle
- terminated
e.g. terminated → ceased, stopped, ended, canceled…
Choose the right word
We abate a nuisance, terminate a controversy, suppress a rebellion.
J. C. Fernald, English Synonyms and Antonyms (1914)
Example sentences
- cancel Circumstances forced us to cancel our appointment.
- cease Very few countries could cease trading with China.
- delete Please tell me how to delete my Facebook account.
Popularity over time
| Word | 1850 → 2019 | Trend |
|---|---|---|
| terminate | falling | |
| cancel | steady | |
| cease | falling | |
| discontinue | falling |
Use in printed books, per decade from 1850 to 2019.
By length
- 2 letters
- do1, ax1
- 3 letters
- can1, end1, axe1
- 4 letters
- take1, stop1, stay1, fire2, turn1, hold1
- 5 letters
- close1, prove1, cease1, abate2
- 6 letters
- result2, finish2, cancel2, delete2, expire2
- 7 letters
- abolish3, mortify3
- 8 letters
- complete2, conclude2, abrogate3
- 11 letters
- discontinue4
The small number after each word is its number of syllables (fire2 = 2 syllables).
In other languages
- Français
- terminer