cancelled
cancelled in 30 Sekunden
- Cancelled indicates that a planned event, service, or agreement will no longer take place or is no longer valid.
- It is commonly used in travel, business, and social contexts to signal a definitive end to an arrangement.
- The word can function as both a past participle in passive constructions and as an adjective modifying a noun.
- In modern slang, it refers to the collective withdrawal of support for a person or entity due to controversial actions.
The word cancelled is a versatile term that primarily functions as the past participle of the verb 'to cancel' or as an adjective. At its core, it signifies the nullification or cessation of a planned event, service, or agreement. When something is cancelled, it is no longer intended to occur, and any prior arrangements associated with it are rendered void. This term is ubiquitous in modern life, appearing in contexts ranging from transportation and business to social media and legal contracts. In the realm of travel, a cancelled flight is a common frustration, indicating that the airline will not operate the scheduled journey. In business, a cancelled meeting suggests that the participants will no longer gather at the appointed time. The word carries a sense of finality and often necessitates a secondary action, such as rescheduling or seeking a refund.
- Core Concept
- The act of deciding that an organized event will not happen or that an order for something will be stopped.
Beyond physical events, 'cancelled' has evolved significantly in the digital age. The rise of 'cancel culture' has introduced a socio-cultural dimension to the word. In this context, being 'cancelled' refers to a collective withdrawal of support for a public figure or company following a perceived moral or social transgression. This modern usage is often controversial and highlights the word's power to describe not just logistical changes, but also shifts in social standing and public approval. Whether it is a subscription service that has been terminated or a television show that will no longer air, 'cancelled' serves as a definitive marker of an end. It is important to distinguish between something being postponed (delayed to a later time) and being cancelled (stopped entirely). The clarity of this distinction is crucial in professional and personal communication to manage expectations and logistics effectively.
The outdoor concert was cancelled due to the sudden thunderstorm, leaving thousands of fans disappointed.
In administrative and legal settings, 'cancelled' is used to describe the invalidation of documents or instruments. A cancelled check, for instance, is one that has been processed by the bank and can no longer be used for payment. Similarly, a cancelled contract is one that has been legally terminated by the parties involved. This usage emphasizes the word's role in formal systems where status changes must be clearly documented. The emotional weight of the word can vary; while a cancelled dentist appointment might be a relief, a cancelled wedding is often a significant emotional event. Understanding the context is vital for interpreting the impact of the word. In technical environments, such as software development, a cancelled process refers to a task that was stopped by the user or the system before completion. This broad range of applications makes 'cancelled' an essential word for learners to master, as it bridges the gap between everyday logistics and complex social or legal concepts.
- Social Context
- Refers to the public shaming or boycotting of individuals who have said or done something considered offensive.
After the controversial remarks went viral, the influencer found themselves effectively cancelled by their former sponsors.
Furthermore, the word is frequently paired with auxiliary verbs to form the passive voice, such as 'was cancelled' or 'has been cancelled.' This structure is common because the focus is usually on the event itself rather than the person who made the decision. For example, 'The flight was cancelled' is more common than 'The airline cancelled the flight' in public announcements. This passive construction helps convey information neutrally and efficiently. As an adjective, it directly modifies a noun, as in 'a cancelled order' or 'cancelled plans.' This flexibility allows speakers to integrate the concept into various sentence structures seamlessly. By examining the nuances of 'cancelled,' learners can better navigate the complexities of modern communication, from managing travel disruptions to understanding contemporary social dynamics. The word's evolution from a simple logistical term to a powerful social descriptor illustrates the dynamic nature of the English language.
- Technical Usage
- In computing, it describes a command or operation that has been aborted by the user or the operating system.
The software update was cancelled because the device lost its internet connection during the download.
Due to the lack of interest, the evening workshop has been cancelled indefinitely.
Please return any cancelled tickets to the box office for a full refund of the purchase price.
Using the word cancelled correctly involves understanding its role as both a past participle and an adjective. In most cases, it appears in passive constructions to indicate that an action has been taken to stop an event. For example, 'The meeting was cancelled by the manager' focuses on the status of the meeting. When using it as an adjective, it describes the state of a noun, such as 'a cancelled flight' or 'cancelled plans.' It is essential to ensure that the subject of the sentence is the thing being stopped, not the person doing the stopping, unless you are using the active voice 'cancelled' as a past tense verb (e.g., 'I cancelled the subscription').
- Passive Voice
- The event + was/has been + cancelled. Example: 'The festival was cancelled due to rain.'
One common mistake is confusing 'cancelled' with 'postponed.' If an event is cancelled, it is not expected to happen at all. If it is postponed, it will happen at a later date. Using 'cancelled' when you mean 'postponed' can cause significant confusion. Another nuance is the use of 'cancelled' in social contexts. When saying 'He was cancelled,' the word acts as a descriptor of social status rather than a logistical fact. This requires a different level of sensitivity and understanding of current cultural trends. In formal writing, 'cancelled' is often followed by a prepositional phrase explaining the reason, such as 'cancelled due to,' 'cancelled because of,' or 'cancelled owing to.'
All flights to the coastal region were cancelled as the hurricane approached the shore.
In business correspondence, 'cancelled' should be used clearly and promptly. For instance, 'We regret to inform you that the project has been cancelled' is a standard way to communicate a major change. Using the word in the subject line of an email can help the recipient identify urgent information quickly. When discussing financial matters, 'cancelled' often refers to the voiding of a transaction. 'The transaction was cancelled before the funds were transferred' is a typical sentence in banking. In these contexts, the word provides a clear, unambiguous statement of fact that helps prevent further action or confusion.
- Adjectival Use
- The cancelled + noun. Example: 'The cancelled orders were removed from the system.'
She felt a sense of relief when the stressful presentation was cancelled at the last minute.
When speaking, the emphasis is usually on the first syllable: CAN-celled. This clear pronunciation helps distinguish it from similar-sounding words. In informal settings, you might hear people say 'It's cancelled' to refer to anything from a date to a planned movie night. The word is often used with 'just' to indicate a recent change: 'The game was just cancelled.' This adds a sense of immediacy to the news. Whether you are writing a formal report or chatting with friends, 'cancelled' is a fundamental word that conveys a specific type of ending with precision and clarity.
- Active Voice
- Subject + cancelled + object. Example: 'The committee cancelled the annual gala.'
The bank confirmed that the stolen credit card had been cancelled immediately after the report.
Because of the low turnout, the local theater cancelled the remaining performances of the play.
The warranty is cancelled if the product is opened by an unauthorized technician.
The word cancelled is a staple of public announcements and news broadcasts. In airports and train stations, you will frequently hear the overhead voice or see the departure boards flashing the word 'CANCELLED' in red. This is perhaps the most common and stressful context for the word, as it signals a disruption to travel plans. News reporters use it to describe the fate of major events, such as 'The Olympics were cancelled during the war' or 'The political rally has been cancelled for security reasons.' These public uses of the word are designed to reach a wide audience and provide critical information quickly.
- Public Announcements
- Commonly heard in transit hubs and through official news channels regarding events.
In the world of entertainment, 'cancelled' is often used in discussions about television shows and streaming series. Fans might lament that their favorite show was 'cancelled after only one season.' This usage highlights the commercial nature of the term, where a lack of viewership or funding leads to the end of a creative project. On social media platforms like Twitter and TikTok, the word has taken on a life of its own through 'cancel culture.' Here, you might see hashtags like #Cancelled or discussions about whether a celebrity 'should be cancelled.' This modern, digital usage is pervasive among younger generations and has become a significant part of contemporary social discourse.
The morning news reported that the annual parade was cancelled to ensure public safety during the protest.
In professional environments, you will hear 'cancelled' during meetings or in office communications. A manager might say, 'The 2 PM meeting is cancelled because the client is unavailable.' In these settings, the word is used to manage schedules and resources. It is also common in financial contexts, such as when a bank representative tells you that your 'credit card has been cancelled' due to suspicious activity. This usage is direct and informative, focusing on the status of a service. Even in casual conversation, friends might say, 'Our plans are cancelled' if someone gets sick or something else comes up. The word's ubiquity across different domains—from high-stakes news to everyday social interactions—makes it a vital part of the English vocabulary.
- Professional Use
- Used to manage logistics, meetings, and project statuses in a business setting.
I received an automated email stating that my subscription had been cancelled successfully.
Finally, 'cancelled' is often seen in legal and official documents. A passport might be 'cancelled' if it is lost or stolen, or a contract might be 'cancelled' if one party fails to meet their obligations. In these cases, the word has significant legal weight and implies that the document or agreement is no longer valid. This formal usage is precise and carries serious consequences. By paying attention to where and how 'cancelled' is used, learners can gain a deeper understanding of its many layers of meaning, from the logistical to the social and legal. The word's ability to convey a definitive end makes it an indispensable tool for clear communication in almost any situation.
- Legal Context
- Refers to the formal termination of a contract, document, or official status.
The judge ruled that the agreement was cancelled because of a breach of terms by the defendant.
The flight attendant announced that the connection was cancelled and passengers should head to the service desk.
Fans were devastated to hear that the world tour had been cancelled due to the singer's health issues.
One of the most frequent mistakes learners make with the word cancelled is its spelling. As mentioned earlier, the British spelling uses two 'l's (cancelled), while the American spelling often uses one (canceled). While both are technically correct, mixing them within the same piece of writing can appear unprofessional. Another common error is confusing 'cancelled' with 'postponed.' If you tell someone a meeting is cancelled, they will assume it is not happening at all. If you actually meant it was moved to next week, you should use 'postponed' or 'rescheduled.' This distinction is vital for effective scheduling and avoiding missed opportunities.
- Spelling Variation
- British: cancelled (double 'l'). American: canceled (single 'l'). Both are acceptable but should be consistent.
Learners also sometimes struggle with the preposition that follows 'cancelled.' The most common and correct preposition is 'due to' or 'because of.' For example, 'The flight was cancelled due to bad weather.' Using 'for' can sometimes work (e.g., 'cancelled for repairs'), but 'due to' is generally more versatile and widely accepted. Additionally, some learners use 'cancelled' when they mean 'deleted' or 'erased.' While they all imply a form of removal, 'cancelled' specifically refers to plans, services, or official documents. You wouldn't 'cancel' a word in a sentence; you would 'delete' it. Understanding these subtle differences helps in choosing the most precise word for the situation.
Incorrect: The meeting was cancelled to tomorrow. Correct: The meeting was postponed until tomorrow.
In the context of 'cancel culture,' the word is often used as a slang term. A common mistake is to use it too broadly or without understanding the social implications. Saying someone is 'cancelled' is a strong statement and should be used with an awareness of the controversy it might stir. Furthermore, some learners forget to use the auxiliary verb 'be' when using 'cancelled' in the passive voice. Saying 'The flight cancelled' is incorrect; it must be 'The flight was cancelled' or 'The flight has been cancelled.' This is because the flight didn't perform the action of cancelling; it was the subject of the action.
- Confused Words
- Cancelled vs. Postponed vs. Deleted. Each has a specific meaning related to stopping or removing something.
Incorrect: I cancelled the file from my computer. Correct: I deleted the file from my computer.
Another subtle error involves the use of 'cancelled' with time expressions. While you can say 'The event was cancelled yesterday,' you cannot say 'The event was cancelled for two hours' if you mean it was delayed. 'Cancelled' is a one-time action that results in a permanent state. If something is stopped temporarily, other words like 'suspended' or 'interrupted' are more appropriate. By being mindful of these common pitfalls, learners can use 'cancelled' more accurately and confidently in both written and spoken English. The key is to focus on the permanence and the official nature of the cancellation, as well as the correct grammatical structures that support its use.
- Grammatical Error
- Missing auxiliary verb: 'The show cancelled' (Incorrect) vs. 'The show was cancelled' (Correct).
The airline staff explained that the flight was cancelled due to a technical fault in the engine.
If you don't pay the premium by the end of the month, your insurance policy will be cancelled.
The reservation was cancelled because the guest failed to provide a valid credit card number.
While cancelled is a very common word, there are several alternatives that might be more precise depending on the context. For example, 'called off' is a frequent phrasal verb synonym used in informal and semi-formal speech. You might say, 'They called off the wedding' instead of 'The wedding was cancelled.' Another synonym is 'aborted,' which is often used in technical or military contexts to describe a mission or process that is stopped before it is completed. 'Terminated' is a more formal alternative, often used in legal or employment contexts, such as 'terminating a contract' or 'terminating an employee.'
- Called Off
- A common phrasal verb synonym. Example: 'The search for the missing hikers was called off at dusk.'
In the realm of legal documents and agreements, words like 'nullified,' 'voided,' or 'rescinded' are often used. 'Nullified' implies that something has been made legally invalid, while 'rescinded' specifically refers to the act of taking back or revoking an offer or law. 'Voided' is commonly used with checks or official forms that are no longer usable. Choosing the right synonym can add a layer of professional sophistication to your writing. For instance, 'The policy was rescinded' sounds more formal and specific than 'The policy was cancelled.' Each of these words carries a slightly different nuance that can help clarify the exact nature of the ending.
The mission was aborted just seconds before liftoff due to a sensor malfunction.
When talking about events that are stopped temporarily, 'suspended' is a better choice. For example, 'The game was suspended due to rain' implies that it might resume later, whereas 'The game was cancelled' means it is over for good. Similarly, 'interrupted' suggests a brief break in an ongoing activity. In social contexts, 'boycotted' is a related term that describes a collective refusal to engage with a person or organization, which is often a precursor to someone being 'cancelled.' Understanding these alternatives allows for more nuanced and effective communication, ensuring that the listener or reader understands the exact status of the situation.
- Terminated
- Highly formal, often used in legal or business contexts. Example: 'The lease was terminated early by mutual agreement.'
The contract was nullified after it was discovered that one of the signatures was forged.
Finally, 'scrapped' is an informal synonym often used to describe plans or projects that are abandoned. You might hear someone say, 'We scrapped the original design and started over.' This word carries a sense of discarding something that is no longer useful. In contrast, 'revoked' is used for privileges or licenses that are taken away, such as a 'revoked driver's license.' By expanding your vocabulary to include these synonyms, you can choose the word that best fits the formality and specific circumstances of your message. This not only improves your English proficiency but also helps you communicate more clearly and effectively in a variety of settings.
- Scrapped
- Informal, used for plans or ideas that are discarded. Example: 'The idea for a new park was scrapped due to budget cuts.'
His license was revoked after he was caught driving under the influence for the third time.
The government rescinded the controversial tax law after widespread public protests.
The sporting event was suspended for thirty minutes while the medical team attended to an injured player.
How Formal Is It?
Wusstest du?
The word is related to 'chancel', the part of a church that was often separated by a lattice-work screen.
Aussprachehilfe
- Pronouncing it as 'can-CELLED' with stress on the second syllable.
- Mispronouncing the 'ed' ending as a separate syllable.
- Confusing the pronunciation with 'concealed'.
- Not clearly articulating the 'l' sound.
- Making the 'a' sound too long, like 'cah-ncelled'.
Schwierigkeitsgrad
The word is easy to recognize in most contexts.
The double 'l' vs single 'l' can be tricky for some learners.
The pronunciation is straightforward once the stress is learned.
It is a clear and common word in public announcements.
Was du als Nächstes lernen solltest
Voraussetzungen
Als Nächstes lernen
Fortgeschritten
Wichtige Grammatik
Passive Voice
The meeting was cancelled.
Past Participle as Adjective
The cancelled flight caused delays.
Present Perfect Passive
The event has been cancelled.
Future Passive
The show will be cancelled if no one buys tickets.
Conditional Sentences
If it rains, the game will be cancelled.
Beispiele nach Niveau
The English class is cancelled today.
L'aula d'anglès s'ha cancel·lat avui.
Simple present passive with 'is'.
My flight was cancelled.
El meu vol va ser cancel·lat.
Simple past passive with 'was'.
Is the meeting cancelled?
S'ha cancel·lat la reunió?
Interrogative form of the passive voice.
The party is cancelled because it is raining.
La festa s'ha cancel·lat perquè plou.
Using 'because' to give a reason.
I cancelled my doctor's appointment.
He cancel·lat la meva cita amb el metge.
Active voice, simple past.
The bus was cancelled.
L'autobús va ser cancel·lat.
Simple past passive.
We cancelled the trip.
Vam cancel·lar el viatge.
Active voice, simple past with 'we'.
The show is cancelled.
L'espectacle s'ha cancel·lat.
Simple present passive.
The football match was cancelled due to the heavy rain.
El partit de futbol es va cancel·lar a causa de la pluja intensa.
Using 'due to' for a reason.
I need to tell you that the concert is cancelled.
T'he de dir que el concert s'ha cancel·lat.
Infinitive 'to tell' followed by a clause.
She cancelled her gym membership last month.
Va cancel·lar la seva subscripció al gimnàs el mes passat.
Simple past with a time expression 'last month'.
All the trains were cancelled this morning.
Tots els trens s'han cancel·lat aquest matí.
Plural subject with 'were'.
The hotel reservation was cancelled by mistake.
La reserva de l'hotel es va cancel·lar per error.
Using 'by mistake' as an adverbial phrase.
They cancelled the picnic because of the wind.
Van cancel·lar el pícnic a causa del vent.
Using 'because of' followed by a noun.
The school trip has been cancelled.
L'excursió de l'escola s'ha cancel·lat.
Present perfect passive.
I am sorry, but the event is cancelled.
Em sap greu, però l'esdeveniment s'ha cancel·lat.
Polite apology followed by the main clause.
The meeting has been cancelled until further notice.
La reunió s'ha cancel·lat fins a nou avís.
Present perfect passive with 'until further notice'.
If the weather doesn't improve, the flight will be cancelled.
Si el temps no millora, el vol serà cancel·lat.
First conditional with future passive.
The project was cancelled due to a lack of funding.
El projecte es va cancel·lar per falta de finançament.
Passive voice with a specific reason.
I'm afraid I have to cancel our dinner plans tonight.
Em temo que he de cancel·lar els nostres plans per sopar d'aquesta nit.
Using 'have to' for necessity.
The subscription was cancelled automatically after the trial ended.
La subscripció es va cancel·lar automàticament un cop va acabar la prova.
Adverb 'automatically' modifying the verb.
The festival was cancelled, much to the disappointment of the fans.
El festival es va cancel·lar, per a gran decepció dels seguidors.
Using 'much to the disappointment of' for effect.
The bank cancelled my card because of suspicious activity.
El banc va cancel·lar la meva targeta per activitat sospitosa.
Active voice with a clear reason.
The order was cancelled before it could be shipped.
La comanda es va cancel·lar abans que pogués ser enviada.
Passive voice with a temporal clause.
The controversial show was cancelled following a wave of public protests.
L'espectacle polèmic es va cancel·lar després d'una onada de protestes públiques.
Passive voice with a complex prepositional phrase.
The contract was cancelled after a significant breach of terms was discovered.
El contracte es va cancel·lar després que es descobrís un incompliment significatiu dels termes.
Passive voice with a subordinate clause.
The flight was cancelled, leaving hundreds of passengers stranded at the airport.
El vol es va cancel·lar, deixant centenars de passatgers atrapats a l'aeroport.
Participial phrase 'leaving...' providing additional information.
The government cancelled the project, citing environmental concerns.
El govern va cancel·lar el projecte, al·legant preocupacions ambientals.
Active voice with a present participle 'citing'.
The annual gala was cancelled indefinitely due to the ongoing crisis.
La gala anual es va cancel·lar indefinidament a causa de la crisi actual.
Adverb 'indefinitely' modifying the passive verb.
The subscription will be cancelled unless you renew it by Friday.
La subscripció es cancel·larà a menys que la renovis abans de divendres.
Conditional sentence with 'unless'.
The celebrity was effectively cancelled after the old tweets resurfaced.
La celebritat va ser efectivament cancel·lada després que reapareguessin els tuits antics.
Using 'effectively' to describe a social state.
The insurance policy was cancelled because the premiums were not paid.
La pòlissa d'assegurança es va cancel·lar perquè no es van pagar les primes.
Passive voice with a causal clause.
The merger was cancelled at the eleventh hour, much to the surprise of the shareholders.
La fusió es va cancel·lar a l'últim moment, per a gran sorpresa dels accionistes.
Using the idiom 'at the eleventh hour'.
The law was cancelled by the supreme court, which ruled it unconstitutional.
La llei va ser cancel·lada pel tribunal suprem, que la va declarar inconstitucional.
Relative clause 'which ruled...' providing more detail.
The mission was aborted, or effectively cancelled, due to a critical system failure.
La missió va ser avortada, o efectivament cancel·lada, a causa d'una fallada crítica del sistema.
Using 'effectively cancelled' as an appositive.
The project was cancelled, a decision that had far-reaching consequences for the local economy.
El projecte es va cancel·lar, una decisió que va tenir conseqüències de gran abast per a l'economia local.
Noun phrase 'a decision that...' in apposition.
The subscription was cancelled, thereby terminating all access to the premium features.
La subscripció es va cancel·lar, posant fi així a tot l'accés a les funcions prèmium.
Using 'thereby' to show a direct result.
The event was cancelled, notwithstanding the extensive preparations that had been made.
L'esdeveniment es va cancel·lar, malgrat els extensos preparatius que s'havien fet.
Using 'notwithstanding' for contrast.
The contract was cancelled, and the parties were returned to their original positions.
El contracte es va cancel·lar i les parts van tornar a les seves posicions originals.
Compound sentence with two passive clauses.
The celebrity's career was effectively cancelled by the relentless media scrutiny.
La carrera de la celebritat va ser efectivament cancel·lada per l'implacable escrutini dels mitjans.
Passive voice with 'effectively' and a complex agent.
The treaty was cancelled, or rather, unilaterally rescinded by the outgoing administration.
El tractat va ser cancel·lat, o millor dit, rescindit unilateralment per l'administració sortint.
Using 'or rather' to refine the meaning with a more precise term.
The project was cancelled, a move that was widely interpreted as a political maneuver.
El projecte es va cancel·lar, un moviment que va ser àmpliament interpretat com una maniobra política.
Complex sentence with a relative clause modifying a noun phrase.
The subscription was cancelled, an action that precipitated a sharp decline in the company's stock price.
La subscripció es va cancel·lar, una acció que va precipitar una forta caiguda del preu de les accions de l'empresa.
Using 'precipitated' to show a strong causal link.
The event was cancelled, much to the chagrin of the organizers who had spent months planning it.
L'esdeveniment es va cancel·lar, per a gran disgust dels organitzadors que havien passat mesos planejant-lo.
Using 'much to the chagrin of' for a sophisticated tone.
The contract was cancelled, and the subsequent litigation lasted for several years.
El contracte es va cancel·lar i el litigi posterior va durar diversos anys.
Compound sentence showing a sequence of events.
The celebrity was cancelled, a phenomenon that has sparked intense debate about the limits of free speech.
La celebritat va ser cancel·lada, un fenomen que ha desencadenat un debat intens sobre els límits de la llibertat d'expressió.
Using 'sparked' to describe the start of a debate.
The mission was cancelled, an outcome that was deemed necessary to ensure the safety of the crew.
La missió va ser cancel·lada, un resultat que es va considerar necessari per garantir la seguretat de la tripulació.
Using 'deemed' for a formal evaluation.
The agreement was cancelled, and the parties were left to navigate the fallout on their own.
L'acord es va cancel·lar i les parts van haver de gestionar les conseqüències pel seu compte.
Using 'fallout' to describe the negative consequences.
Häufige Kollokationen
Häufige Phrasen
— A simple way to say a plan is not happening.
Don't bother coming over; it's cancelled.
— Used to confirm that something will definitely not happen.
If you can't make it, consider it cancelled.
— A common announcement in travel.
The flight was cancelled, so we stayed in a hotel.
— Refers to a cancellation that happens just before the start.
The presentation was cancelled at the last minute.
— Refers to a cancellation that happens without warning.
The service was cancelled without notice.
— Means it is stopped for an unknown amount of time.
The classes are cancelled until further notice.
— Means both parties agreed to stop something.
The contract was cancelled by mutual agreement.
— A formal way to say something was stopped for unexpected reasons.
The event was cancelled due to unforeseen circumstances.
— Means every part of something is stopped.
The program was cancelled in its entirety.
Wird oft verwechselt mit
Postponed means moved to a later time; cancelled means stopped entirely.
Delayed means happening later than planned; cancelled means not happening at all.
Suspended means stopped temporarily; cancelled means stopped permanently.
Redewendungen & Ausdrücke
— To have an equal but opposite effect on someone or something.
His good qualities cancel out his bad ones.
Neutral— To have no more room for new plans or people.
I've already cancelled my dance card for the weekend.
Informal— To ignore or block out distractions.
You need to cancel the noise and focus on your work.
Informal— The practice of boycotting someone who has done something offensive.
Cancel culture is a major topic of debate today.
Slang/Modern— To officially state that a debt no longer needs to be paid.
The bank decided to cancel the debt.
Formal— To stop a request for goods or services.
I need to cancel my order before it ships.
Neutral— A dramatic way to say a disaster has been averted.
Today, we are cancelling the apocalypse!
Informal/Pop Culture— To stop a check from being cashed.
I had to cancel the check because I lost it.
Neutral— To stop a scheduled flight.
The airline had to cancel the flight due to fog.
Neutral— To stop a planned meeting.
Let's cancel the meeting and go to lunch instead.
NeutralLeicht verwechselbar
Similar sound.
Concealed means hidden; cancelled means stopped.
The weapon was concealed in his jacket.
Similar sound and spelling.
Counselled means given advice; cancelled means stopped.
She was counselled after the traumatic event.
Similar length and starting sound.
Consolidated means combined; cancelled means stopped.
The two companies consolidated their resources.
Similar ending sound.
Compelled means forced; cancelled means stopped.
He felt compelled to tell the truth.
Similar spelling.
Channeled means directed; cancelled means stopped.
She channeled her energy into her work.
Satzmuster
The [noun] is cancelled.
The class is cancelled.
The [noun] was cancelled because of [reason].
The game was cancelled because of the rain.
The [noun] has been cancelled until further notice.
The meeting has been cancelled until further notice.
The [noun] was cancelled, leaving [people] [state].
The flight was cancelled, leaving passengers stranded.
Notwithstanding [preparations], the [noun] was cancelled.
Notwithstanding the preparations, the event was cancelled.
The [noun] was cancelled, an action that precipitated [consequence].
The contract was cancelled, an action that precipitated a lawsuit.
If [condition], the [noun] will be cancelled.
If it snows, the trip will be cancelled.
The [noun] was cancelled, citing [reason].
The project was cancelled, citing budget issues.
Wortfamilie
Substantive
Verben
Adjektive
Verwandt
So verwendest du es
Very high in both spoken and written English.
-
The meeting cancelled.
→
The meeting was cancelled.
You must use the passive voice because the meeting did not perform the action.
-
I cancelled the file.
→
I deleted the file.
Use 'deleted' for computer files and 'cancelled' for plans or services.
-
The flight is cancelled to tomorrow.
→
The flight is postponed until tomorrow.
Use 'postponed' if the event is happening at a later time.
-
He was counselled for his bad behavior.
→
He was cancelled for his bad behavior.
Be careful not to confuse 'cancelled' with 'counselled' (given advice).
-
The check was cancelled because I lost it.
→
I stopped payment on the check because I lost it.
While 'cancelled check' is a term, the action of stopping it is often 'stop payment'.
Tipps
Double the L
In British English, remember to double the 'l' when adding 'ed' or 'ing' to 'cancel'.
Cancelled vs. Postponed
Make sure you use 'cancelled' only when the event is not happening at all.
Give a Reason
When cancelling a meeting, always provide a brief reason to be polite and professional.
Use Synonyms
Try using 'called off' in casual conversation for a more natural sound.
Passive Voice
Use the passive voice ('The flight was cancelled') for official announcements.
Cancel Culture
Be aware of the modern social meaning of 'cancelled' when using social media.
Stress the First Syllable
Always put the emphasis on the 'CAN' in 'cancelled'.
Check the Context
The meaning of 'cancelled' can change from logistical to social depending on the context.
Be Clear
When you say something is cancelled, make sure there is no ambiguity about its status.
Be Consistent
Stick to one spelling (cancelled or canceled) throughout your entire document.
Einprägen
Eselsbrücke
Think of a big 'X' over a plan. The 'X' looks like a cross, and 'cancelled' comes from crossing things out.
Visuelle Assoziation
Imagine a red stamp that says 'CANCELLED' being slammed onto a document or a flight board.
Word Web
Herausforderung
Try to use 'cancelled' in three different sentences today: one about travel, one about a meeting, and one about a social plan.
Wortherkunft
The word 'cancelled' comes from the Latin 'cancellare', which means 'to make like a lattice' or 'to cross out'. This referred to the practice of crossing out text with diagonal lines, creating a lattice-like pattern. It entered the English language via the Old French 'canceller'.
Ursprüngliche Bedeutung: To cross out writing with lines.
Indo-European (Latin -> Old French -> English)Kultureller Kontext
Be careful when using 'cancelled' in social contexts, as it can be a very strong and controversial term.
In the UK and US, 'cancelled' is a very common word in daily life, especially in travel and business.
Im Alltag üben
Kontexte aus dem Alltag
Travel
- The flight is cancelled.
- My train was cancelled.
- Are there any cancelled flights?
- What happens if my trip is cancelled?
Business
- The meeting has been cancelled.
- I need to cancel our appointment.
- The project was cancelled due to budget cuts.
- Is the presentation cancelled?
Services
- I cancelled my subscription.
- My order was cancelled.
- How do I cancel my membership?
- The service was cancelled without notice.
Social
- Our plans are cancelled.
- The party was cancelled.
- I'm sorry, I have to cancel.
- Is the event still on or is it cancelled?
Legal
- The contract was cancelled.
- The agreement is cancelled.
- The check was cancelled.
- The policy has been cancelled.
Gesprächseinstiege
"Have you ever had a flight cancelled at the last minute?"
"What do you do when your plans are suddenly cancelled?"
"Do you think 'cancel culture' is a good or bad thing?"
"How would you feel if your favorite TV show was cancelled?"
"Have you ever had to cancel a big event like a wedding or a party?"
Tagebuch-Impulse
Describe a time when a cancelled plan actually turned out to be a good thing.
Write about a situation where you had to cancel something important and how you felt.
What are your thoughts on the social phenomenon of being 'cancelled'?
If you could 'cancel' one thing in the world, what would it be and why?
How do you handle the stress of a cancelled trip or a major life event?
Häufig gestellte Fragen
10 FragenBoth are correct. 'Cancelled' is the standard spelling in British English, while 'canceled' is more common in American English. You should choose one and be consistent.
If something is cancelled, it is not going to happen at all. If it is postponed, it is delayed and will happen at a later date or time.
Yes, in the context of 'cancel culture,' it means that a person has lost public support due to their controversial actions or words.
It means that the event or service is stopped, and there is no plan to restart it in the foreseeable future.
You can use it as a verb (e.g., 'I cancelled the meeting') or as an adjective (e.g., 'The cancelled flight caused problems').
A cancelled check is one that has been processed by the bank and can no longer be used to make a payment.
It is a neutral word that can be used in both formal and informal contexts, depending on the situation.
Common synonyms include 'called off,' 'aborted,' 'terminated,' and 'nullified,' depending on the context.
No, the noun form is 'cancellation.' 'Cancelled' is only used as a verb or an adjective.
It is used in the passive voice because the focus is usually on the event that was stopped, rather than the person who stopped it.
Teste dich selbst 180 Fragen
Write a sentence about a cancelled flight.
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Write a short email cancelling a meeting.
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Explain the difference between 'cancelled' and 'postponed'.
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Write a sentence using 'cancelled' as an adjective.
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Write a sentence about 'cancel culture'.
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Write a sentence using the formal synonym 'rescinded'.
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Write a sentence about a cancelled contract.
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Write a sentence about a cancelled subscription.
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Write a sentence about a cancelled class.
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Write a sentence about a cancelled trip.
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Write a sentence using 'cancelled indefinitely'.
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Write a sentence about a cancelled check.
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Write a sentence about a cancelled party.
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Write a sentence about a cancelled show.
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Write a sentence using 'cancelled due to unforeseen circumstances'.
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Write a sentence about a cancelled reservation.
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Write a sentence about a cancelled order.
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Write a sentence about a cancelled game.
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Write a sentence about a cancelled mission.
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Write a sentence about a cancelled event.
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Pronounce the word 'cancelled' correctly.
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Say: 'The flight was cancelled due to bad weather.'
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Say: 'I need to cancel my appointment.'
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Say: 'The meeting has been cancelled until further notice.'
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Say: 'The project was cancelled because of a lack of funding.'
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Say: 'The concert was cancelled at the last minute.'
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Say: 'She cancelled her gym membership last month.'
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Say: 'All the trains were cancelled this morning.'
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Say: 'The hotel reservation was cancelled by mistake.'
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Say: 'They cancelled the picnic because of the wind.'
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Say: 'The school trip has been cancelled.'
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Say: 'I am sorry, but the event is cancelled.'
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Say: 'The bank cancelled my card because of suspicious activity.'
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Say: 'The order was cancelled before it could be shipped.'
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Say: 'The controversial show was cancelled following protests.'
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Say: 'The contract was cancelled after a breach of terms.'
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Say: 'The flight was cancelled, leaving passengers stranded.'
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Say: 'The government cancelled the project, citing environmental concerns.'
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Say: 'The annual gala was cancelled indefinitely.'
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Say: 'The subscription will be cancelled unless you renew it.'
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Listen to the announcement: 'Flight BA123 to London is cancelled.' Which flight is stopped?
Listen to the message: 'The meeting is cancelled due to an emergency.' Why is it stopped?
Listen to the news: 'The festival was cancelled after the storm hit.' When was it stopped?
Listen to the office talk: 'The project has been cancelled indefinitely.' Is there a new start date?
Listen to the bank call: 'Your card was cancelled for security reasons.' Why was it stopped?
Listen to the podcast: 'Cancel culture is a complex issue.' What is the topic?
Listen to the legal report: 'The contract was rescinded by the court.' What word is a synonym for 'rescinded'?
Listen to the announcement: 'All trains are cancelled until tomorrow morning.' When will they start again?
Listen to the message: 'I'm sorry, but I have to cancel our dinner.' What is the person doing?
Listen to the news: 'The mission was aborted due to a fuel leak.' What happened to the mission?
Listen to the talk: 'The show was cancelled after one season.' How long did the show last?
Listen to the message: 'Your order was cancelled by mistake.' Why was it stopped?
Listen to the announcement: 'The class is cancelled today.' Do you have class?
Listen to the talk: 'The project was scrapped due to lack of interest.' Why was it stopped?
Listen to the news: 'The treaty was cancelled by the government.' Who stopped it?
/ 180 correct
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Summary
The word 'cancelled' is essential for communicating that something is stopped permanently. For example, 'The meeting was cancelled' means it won't happen, whereas 'The meeting was postponed' means it will happen later.
- Cancelled indicates that a planned event, service, or agreement will no longer take place or is no longer valid.
- It is commonly used in travel, business, and social contexts to signal a definitive end to an arrangement.
- The word can function as both a past participle in passive constructions and as an adjective modifying a noun.
- In modern slang, it refers to the collective withdrawal of support for a person or entity due to controversial actions.
Double the L
In British English, remember to double the 'l' when adding 'ed' or 'ing' to 'cancel'.
Cancelled vs. Postponed
Make sure you use 'cancelled' only when the event is not happening at all.
Give a Reason
When cancelling a meeting, always provide a brief reason to be polite and professional.
Use Synonyms
Try using 'called off' in casual conversation for a more natural sound.