curtail

/kə:'teil/

Friendly

Word: Curtail

Part of Speech: Verb

Definition: To curtail something means to reduce it or limit it before it has finished or reached its full extent. It can also mean to cut something short or end it earlier than planned.

Usage Instructions:

• When to use: Use "curtail" when you want to express that something is being shortened or restricted. It is often used in contexts where there are rules, laws, or decisions that lead to a reduction in something.
• How to use: You can use "curtail" followed by the noun that is being limited. For example, "curtail spending" means to reduce how much money is spent.

Example Sentences:

1. "My speech was curtailed because we ran out of time."
2. "Many countries curtail personal freedom during emergencies."
3. "The school decided to curtail drinking at events to ensure safety."

Advanced Usage:

• "Curtail" can also be used in a more formal or academic context. For example: "The government implemented policies to curtail pollution levels in the city."

Word Variants:

• Curtailment (noun): The act of reducing or limiting something.
  • Example: "The curtailment of public services has raised concerns among citizens."
• Curtailer (noun): A person or thing that curtails or limits.
  • Example: "The curtailer of the program imposed strict new rules."

Different Meanings:

• While "curtail" primarily means to reduce or limit, it can also imply stopping something altogether, especially in contexts like laws or regulations.

Synonyms:

• Reduce
• Limit
• Shorten
• Diminish
• Restrict

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:

• There aren't specific idioms or phrasal verbs that directly use "curtail," but you might hear phrases like "cut back on" or "scale down," which convey a similar meaning.
  • Example: "We need to cut back on our expenses this month."

Summary:

To curtail means to cut short or limit something before it is fully complete.

Academic

Verb

1. terminate or abbreviate before its intended or proper end or its full extent
   • My speech was cut short
   • Personal freedom is curtailed in many countries
2. place restrictions on
   • curtail drinking in school

Synonyms

• clip
• cut short
• restrict
• curb
• cut back