What does "cancel" mean?
Cancel is a verb that means to decide or announce that an event, activity, or agreement will not take place or be valid. It can also mean to delete or remove something from a schedule or list. Cancel can be used in various contexts, such as canceling a flight, canceling a meeting, or canceling a subscription.
Phrases with "cancel"
There are several phrases that include the word "cancel" in them. Here are a few examples:
- Cancel out: This phrase means to neutralize or offset the effect of something. For instance, if you eat a healthy salad for lunch but then have a big slice of cake for dessert, the cake cancels out the benefits of the salad.
- Cancel culture: This phrase refers to the practice of publicly calling out and shaming individuals or organizations for behavior that is deemed offensive or problematic. Cancel culture often involves boycotting or withdrawing support from the person or entity in question.
- Cancel plans: This phrase means to decide not to go ahead with previously arranged activities or events. For example, if you cancel plans with a friend, it means you're no longer able or willing to meet up with them.
Common synonyms for "cancel"
If you're looking for alternative words to use instead of "cancel," here are a few common synonyms:
- Abolish: This means to officially put an end to something, such as a law or system.
- Scrap: This means to get rid of something completely, often because it's no longer useful or functional.
- Terminate: This means to bring something to an end, often before it was originally intended to finish.
- Call off: This means to cancel or postpone something that was previously planned or arranged.
When to use "cancel"
Cancel is a versatile word that can be used in a variety of situations. Here are a few examples of when you might use the word:
- Canceled plans: If you're no longer able or willing to meet up with someone or attend an event, you might say you're canceling your plans.
- Canceled subscription: If you no longer want to receive a particular service or product, you might cancel your subscription to it.
- Canceled flight: If a flight you were scheduled to take is no longer departing, you might say it's been canceled.
- Canceled contract: If a legal agreement is no longer valid or enforceable, you might say it's been canceled.
In conclusion
Cancel is a common verb that means to decide or announce that something will not take place or be valid. It can be used in a variety of contexts, such as canceling plans, canceling a subscription, or canceling a flight. There are also several phrases and synonyms that include the word "cancel." By understanding the meaning of cancel and its various uses, you'll be able to communicate more effectively in English.