abeyance
/ə'beiəns/
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Noun: 1. A state of temporary inactivity, suspension, or disuse. This is the most common meaning, referring to something being paused or held off for a time. 2. A state of temporary suspension of power, authority, or privilege. Often used in legal or formal contexts to describe rights or laws that are not currently in effect. 3. A state of temporary ownership limbo. In law, specifically regarding property or a title that is temporarily without a definite owner or claimant.
Usage Examples
- Noun:
- The project is in abeyance until we receive further funding. (The project is temporarily suspended.)
- The old law fell into abeyance decades ago. (The old law was suspended and is no longer applied.)
- The estate was held in abeyance during the lengthy court case. (The ownership of the estate was in a temporary, unresolved state.)
Advanced Usage
- "To be in abeyance": This is the most frequent collocation, meaning to be in a state of temporary suspension.
- Plans for the new building are in abeyance.
- "To fall/go into abeyance": Describes the process of becoming suspended or inactive.
- The tradition gradually fell into abeyance over the years.
- "To hold/keep in abeyance": Means to deliberately suspend or postpone something.
- The committee decided to hold the final decision in abeyance.
Variants and Related Words
- Abeyant (adjective): In a state of suspension or inactivity.
- The abeyant title was later claimed by a distant relative.
Synonyms
- Suspension
- Dormancy
- Inactivity
- Remission
- Deferral
- Moratorium
Antonyms
- Continuation
- Operation
- Activity
- Resumption
- Revival
Notes on Meaning
The core concept of abeyance is a temporary pause. It implies an expectation or possibility of future resumption or resolution. It is not a permanent termination. The word is most at home in formal, official, or literary contexts rather than casual conversation.
Noun
- temporary cessation or suspension