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discontinue Definition

dis·con·tinue (dis′kən tin′yo̵̅o̅)

transitive verb discontinued -·ued, discontinuing -·u·ing

  1. to stop using, doing, etc.; cease; give up
  2. Law to effect a discontinuance of (a suit)

Etymology: ME discontinuen < OFr discontinuer < ML discontinuare: see dis- & continue

intransitive verb

to stop; end
discontinue Synonyms

discontinue

v.

cease, break off, terminate, interrupt; see abandon 1, end 1, stop 2, suspend 2. See syn. study at stop.

discontinue Usage Examples

Object

  • medication: Is it necessary to discontinue the medication that has caused an ulcer?
  • prosecution: The CPS also has the power to take over and continue or discontinue a private prosecution if it believes that is necessary.
  • treatment: Where violence, or the threat of violence occurs, your dentist could discontinue treatment straight away, without any advance warning.
  • investigation: The Ombudsman is given unqualified discretion whether to initiate, continue or discontinue an investigation.

Modifying Another Word

  • abruptly: It is important to take them regularly, not as required, and to not abruptly discontinue them after taking them for a while.

Present participle complement

  • breastfeed: Your doctor may advise you to discontinue breastfeeding until your treatment with this medication is finished.