Word
shelved
US/ˈʃɛɫvd/
UK/ʃˈɛlvd/
Definition
adj. describing a plan or project that has been stopped or put on hold for a long time. It is like putting a book on a shelf because you are not ready to read it yet.
adj. describing a project, plan, or proposal that has been postponed or indefinitely suspended. Often used predicatively after 'be' or 'remain' to indicate a lack of current activity.
Examples
“The plans for the new park are shelved for now.”
“After the budget cuts were announced, the expansion project was shelved until the next fiscal year.”
“Although the initial proposal was shelved due to public opposition, the committee remains hopeful that a revised version might be reconsidered in a more favourable political climate.”
Examples
simple
“The plans for the new park are shelved for now.”
contextual
“After the budget cuts were announced, the expansion project was shelved until the next fiscal year.”
complex
“Although the initial proposal was shelved due to public opposition, the committee remains hopeful that a revised version might be reconsidered in a more favourable political climate.”
Usage
Often follows a linking verb like 'be', 'remain', or 'stay'.
Real-World Examples
“This was followed by a responsible debate, during which this issue was more or less shelved.” “But sales dwindled and her fourth album was shelved by her label.” - Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Occasional
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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