Vocabulary Spotlight
Abeyance
Part of Speech: Noun
Definition: A state of temporary disuse, suspension, or inactivity.
“The renovation plans for the old theater are in abeyance until funding is secured.”
Pronunciation
[əˈbeɪ.əns]
Synonyms, Antonyms & Related Words
Synonyms
Pause
Dormancy
Inactivity
Intermission
Antonyms
Resumption
Activity
Engagement
Action
Related Words
Standstill (noun)
Word Origin
“Abeyance” comes from the Old French word “abeance,” which means “aspiration” or “desire.” Over time, it came to signify a state of suspension or inactivity, especially in legal contexts where something is held in reserve.
Word Family
Noun: Abeyance – A temporary state of suspension.
Adjective: Abeyant – Being in a state of abeyance or dormancy.
Mnemonics
Think of “Abeyance” as “A-BEY-ance” – imagine saying “Obey, and wait” – a command to remain inactive or on hold.
Alternatively, picture “a bay in silence,” like a quiet, suspended state where things are on hold.
Industry-specific Usage
Law
In law, “abeyance” refers to the temporary suspension of a legal process or claim until further notice or resolution.
Business
In business, projects or initiatives may be held in abeyance, meaning they are temporarily on hold pending new information or resources.
Science
In science, a theory or study can be held in abeyance if new data or developments are expected to impact its validity or application.
In Context
Abeyance is often used in contexts where decisions, projects, or processes are paused until specific conditions are met. In everyday language, placing something in abeyance implies that it will resume in the future once uncertainties are resolved, allowing flexibility for changing circumstances.