Synonym Chooser

How is the word curtail different from other verbs like it?

Some common synonyms of curtail are abbreviate, abridge, retrench, and shorten. While all these words mean "to reduce in extent," curtail adds an implication of cutting that in some way deprives of completeness or adequacy.

ceremonies curtailed because of rain

When is abbreviate a more appropriate choice than curtail?

The synonyms abbreviate and curtail are sometimes interchangeable, but abbreviate implies a making shorter usually by omitting some part.

using an abbreviated title

Where would abridge be a reasonable alternative to curtail?

The words abridge and curtail are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, abridge implies a reduction in compass or scope with retention of essential elements and a relative completeness in the result.

the abridged version of the novel

When might retrench be a better fit than curtail?

The words retrench and curtail can be used in similar contexts, but retrench suggests a reduction in extent or costs of something felt to be excessive.

declining business forced the company to retrench

When would shorten be a good substitute for curtail?

The meanings of shorten and curtail largely overlap; however, shorten implies reduction in length or duration.

shorten a speech

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of curtail Israel is considering taking military action against Iran — most likely without U.S. support — in the coming days, even as President Donald Trump is in advanced discussions with Tehran about a diplomatic deal to curtail its nuclear program, according to five people with knowledge of the situation. Courtney Kube, NBC news, 12 June 2025 Developing a strategy that curtails reckless, dangerous riding while protecting the rights of legitimate e-bike users has been challenging, according to experts in the cycling community. Don Stacom, Hartford Courant, 12 June 2025 This investment is paying off: the Trump administration is aggressively advancing fossil fuel extraction, curtailing clean energy production, halting the collection of environmental data, opening new federal lands for oil and gas drilling, and dismantling climate regulations. Michael L. Ross, Foreign Affairs, 12 June 2025 When the Taliban returned to power, her life became increasingly dangerous, particularly as women's rights became curtailed. Monika Evstatieva, NPR, 12 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for curtail
Recent Examples of Synonyms for curtail
shorten
Verb
  • Drake, a frequent collaborator, has so far scored 135 placements between Nos. 1 and 10 on the tally, which previously featured more than 10 spaces, but which was shortened several years ago.
    Hugh McIntyre, Forbes.com, 19 June 2025
  • Boelter is a married father of five but often stayed at Carlson’s home in North Minneapolis to shorten his commute from Green Isle, Minn., to work.
    Jim Mustian, Mercury News, 18 June 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Curtail.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/curtail. Accessed 27 Jun. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on curtail

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