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Definitions

stop short

VERB
abbreviate
Synonyms
STRONGEST
abort truncate
STRONG
curtail restrict
Antonyms
WEAK
amplify enlarge expand extend increase lengthen
VERB
cut short
Synonyms
STRONGEST
abort break off curtail halt hinder interrupt postpone quit shorten terminate
WEAK
abbreviate abridge break short bring to an end check checkmate clip diminish end finish freeze intercept leave unfinished put a stop to stop stop cold stop dead
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.

Some of his advisers and supporters urge him to stop short of a change of regime in Tehran.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 17, 2026

Iranian policymakers have believed the United States would stop short of targeting leaders for fear of escalation but "the Maduro episode complicates that assumption," she wrote.

From Barron's • Jan. 29, 2026

Oddly, some people still stop short of characterizing “Andor” as commentary on fascism, although parallels between the Empire and Adolf Hitler's Third Reich abound.

From Salon • May 7, 2025

And the rules stop short of forcing people into treatment.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 2, 2025

I stop short when I see an unfamiliar woman sitting at the table.

From "A Mango-Shaped Space" by Wendy Mass