cancel - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
cancel Word Meanings
- to annul or make void
- to call off or terminate
- to decide not to proceed with something
cancel Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
cancel Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/ˈkænsəl/
US
/ˈkænsl/
cancel Word Etymology
can- = able, cel- = conceal; Latin ' cancellare' meaning 'to make void'. Imagine tearing a cancellation notice in half to visualize its finality.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I reach for the calendar, move my finger to the cancel button, and press it. The page shifts as the plan begins to change from yes to no. I feel a small ache of effort as I turn away from a path I had hoped for. In real life, this little move shows up in meetings, tickets, or trips, and you let go while keeping only what matters.
Real Context
Cancel is a versatile English verb that can mean to annul or make void, to call off or terminate, or to decide not to proceed with something. Native speakers distinguish cancelling a plan, a subscription, or a contract, and will choose words accordingly to convey formality and finality. The concept of cancellation carries a sense of finality, sometimes with financial consequences, so confusion with postponement or withdrawal is common among learners. English also uses related phrases like cancel out (to neutralize) and cancel culture (a broader societal phenomenon). The root cancellare in Latin means 'to make void', which you can visualize by imagining tearing a cancellation notice in half to emphasize finality.
Usage Reminders
- - Use cancel to end plans, services, or permissions.
- - Distinguish cancel from postpone or terminate, depending on finality.
- - Be aware of phrasal verbs like cancel out and expressions like cancel culture.
- - Mind spelling: American 'canceled', British 'cancelled'.
- - Prefer cancel for informal to semi-formal contexts; use revoke/void for legal documents.
Common Misconceptions
- Cancel always means 'end forever'; context matters and some cancellations are reversible or reschedulable.
- Confusing cancel with postpone when the plan can be moved to another date.
- Thinking cancel culture is the same in all languages or cultures.
- Using cancel for legal documents without the right term (e. g., terminate, revoke).
- Overgeneralizing cancel to all endings, including things you can simply ignore.
Thinking Differences
Explain to an English speaker (meta, keep short): English uses cancel as a broad, final action across many domains; many learners assume it always means irreversible, but some cancellations are reversible or postponed. Think about the finality implied and the context (legal vs casual).
Learning Tips
- Practice with real-life scenarios: meetings, subscriptions, and plans.
- Notice the difference between cancel, postpone, and terminate.
- Learn related phrasal verbs like cancel out and spellings (canceled/cancelled).
- Use context to choose the right synonym in legal vs casual contexts.
- Watch for cultural phrases like cancel culture and translate thoughtfully.
- Keep a small glossary of common collocations (cancel a plan, cancel a subscription).
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 2: Usage
In which of the following sentences is 'cancel' used correctly?
A.I canceled my friend's rude behavior at the party.
B.I decided to cancel my appointment and reschedule it for tomorrow.
C.I cancelled my lunch break to work overtime today.
D.I'm looking forward to cancel my vacation plans.
Step 3: Similar Words
Which word is an opposite of 'cancel'?
A.Postpone
B.Skip
C.Delay
D.Confirm
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is a similar word to 'cancel'?
A.Improve
B.Accept
C.Continue
D.Abandon
Step 5: Mastery
In the context of event planning, when might you need to cancel something?
A.When more attendees show up than expected
B.When the venue is double booked
C.When the decorations are perfect
D.When the food is delicious
Related Listening
🌱 Lite (Beginner)
🔥 Advanced
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