Vocabulary Spotlight
Abridge
Part of Speech: Verb
Definition: To shorten a text or speech without losing its essential meaning.
“The editor decided to abridge the lengthy article for the magazine.”
Pronunciation
[uh-BRIJ]
Synonyms, Antonyms & Related Words
Synonyms
Condense
Summarize
Trim
Reduce
Antonyms
Lengthen
Extend
Elaborate
Develop
Related Words
Abridgement (noun)
Word Origin
“Abridge” comes from the Old French “abregier” and ultimately the Latin “abbreviare,” meaning “to shorten.” The term was initially used in reference to written works or texts.
Word Family
Adjective: Abridged – Shortened without losing the essential meaning.
Noun: Abridgement – The act of shortening a text or speech.
Mnemonics
A Book Really Is Down to a GEst of it
This mnemonic suggests that abridging a book means getting down to its essence.
Industry-specific Usage
Publishing
In publishing, abridged versions of books are created for readers who prefer shorter formats.
Legal
Legal documents may be abridged to provide summaries of lengthy cases or statutes.
Education
Textbooks are often abridged to make learning materials more accessible to students.
In Context
The term “abridge” is commonly used to describe the shortening of texts, speeches, or other lengthy content to make them more concise and accessible, without losing essential meaning.