cutting short

VERB

stop earlier than intended

Synonyms

STRONGEST

abort break off curtail halt hinder interrupt postpone quit shorten terminate

WEAK

abbreviate abridge break short bring to an end; leave unfinished check checkmate clip diminish end finish freeze intercept put a stop to stop stop cold stop dead stop short

Antonyms

STRONGEST

begin continue do forward increase lengthen persevere push start

WEAK

prolong

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

He seemed to acknowledge he was cutting short a life of potential.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 29, 2026

Tom Roebuck takes Feyi-Waboso's place on the right wing in what will be his first appearance since a try-scoring display against New Zealand in November, with a broken toe cutting short his Autumn Nations campaign.

From Barron's • Feb. 6, 2026

There’s a slow-fast rhythm to the cutting; short scenes alternate with long; memories explode in montage.

From Los Angeles Times • Oct. 19, 2025

On Monday, Sinn Féin's Deirdre Hargey said First Minister Michelle O'Neill was cutting short a family holiday to return to the assembly for the debate.

From BBC • Aug. 8, 2024

After cutting short their lesson in favor of a stroll, Celaena and Nehemia walked through the spacious halls of the castle, guards trailing behind them.

From "Throne of Glass" by Sarah J. Maas