# abruptly

/əˈbɹəptɫi/ (US) · /ɐbɹˈʌptli/ (UK) · CEFR B1 · Adverb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/abruptly
Updated: 2026-05-04

## Definition

suddenly and unexpectedly. You use it when something happens quickly and without warning.

For teachers: in a sudden and unexpected manner; marked by a sharp change in direction, tone, or action.

## Examples

- The car stopped abruptly at the red light.
- The meeting ended abruptly when the manager received an urgent phone call from headquarters.
- The conversation shifted abruptly from lighthearted banter to serious business, leaving the guests momentarily unsure of how to respond.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.