Synonyms of abruptly

abruptly

adverb

ə-ˈbrəp(t)-lē 

as in suddenly

with great suddenness

the car in front stopped abruptly, and we almost hit it

Synonyms & Similar Words

• suddenly
• short
• unexpectedly
• instantly
• all of a sudden
• immediately
• quickly
• rapidly
• promptly
• surprisingly
• swiftly
• instantaneously
• fast
• speedily
• straightaway
• readily
• hastily
• impulsively
• right off
• right away
• incontinently
• swift
• quick
• impetuously
• recklessly
• rashly
• directly
• right
• pronto
• posthaste
• snappily
• full tilt

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• slowly
• gradually
• hesitantly

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of abruptly

Then, the families of the slain suitors assemble and vow revenge, clashing with Odysseus, Telemachus, Laertes and the loyal servants — only to have Athena intervene and abruptly put a stop to the fighting. — Marlow Stern, Variety, 17 July 2026

According to the outlet, the suspect at one point swam toward shore near Temescal Canyon before abruptly turning back into deeper water, prompting lifeguards to move in and end the standoff. — Stepheny Price, FOXNews.com, 17 July 2026

In February 2025, two high-ranking members of the city Sheriff’s Office, Wilfredo Perez and Thomas Egan, both hired in September by Miranda, abruptly submitted their resignations. — Josephine Stratman, New York Daily News, 16 July 2026

Dixon was the chief operating officer at the nonprofit conservation organization when Paul Baribault abruptly stepped down as CEO more than 15 months ago. — Karen Kucher, San Diego Union-Tribune, 15 July 2026