ENGLISH
REFERENCE

expiration

n. C / U
B2 Upper Intermediate US //ˌɛkspɝˈeɪʃən// UK //ɛkspəɹˈeɪʃən// ex·pi·ra·tion Humorous

n. the end of a period of time when something is valid or can be used. You often see this on food labels or official documents like passports.

n. the ending of a fixed period of time for which a contract, agreement, or status is valid. Refers to the point at which something ceases to be legally or practically effective.


SIMPLE

Check the expiration date on the milk before you buy it.

CONTEXTUAL

The tenant was required to vacate the apartment immediately following the expiration of the lease agreement.

COMPLEX

While the legal expiration of the treaty was set for midnight, diplomats worked feverishly until the final second to negotiate an extension that would prevent a trade war.

Synonyms
Origin

From Middle English expiracioun, exspiracioun (“vapor, breath”), from Latin expīrātiōnem, exspīrātiōnem, accusative singular of expīrātiō, exspīrātiō. By surface analysis, expire + -ation.

Usage

Often paired with 'date' or 'of' ('the expiration of'). In British English, 'expiry' is the more common form.

Pitfall

the expire of the contractthe expiration of the contractLearners often use the verb 'expire' where the noun 'expiration' or 'expiry' is required.

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