Abbreviate - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
To abbreviate means to shorten a word or phrase, often by using initials or omitting letters (e.g., USA for United States of America). It saves time and space in writing.
Definition:
To shorten a word or phrase while retaining its meaning.
Synonyms:
shorten, condense, truncate, reduce
Part of Speech:
verb
Antonyms:
lengthen, expand, extend
Common Collocations:
abbreviate a word, abbreviate a phrase, commonly abbreviated as
Derivatives:
abbreviation, abbreviator, abbreviated
Usage Tips:
Use "abbreviate" when shortening words or phrases formally, like in academic or technical writing.
Common Phrases:
in abbreviated form, abbreviate to, commonly abbreviated as
Etymology:
From Latin "abbreviare," meaning "to shorten," from "ad-" (to) + "brevis" (short).
Examples:
- 1. Please abbreviate your notes for clarity.
- 2. The word "doctor" is often abbreviated as "Dr."
- 3. She asked him to abbreviate his speech due to time constraints.
- 4. In texting, people frequently abbreviate common phrases.