I canceled

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "I canceled" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to indicate that you have called off or terminated an event, appointment, or reservation. Example: "I canceled my dinner reservation because I was feeling unwell."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

54 human-written examples

So I canceled via e-mail and received a cancellation confirmation number.

The New York Times

I canceled Thanksgiving that year.

The New York Times

I canceled the check.

The New York Times

I canceled her birthday party.

The New York Times

So I canceled the second order.

The New York Times - Tech

But, two weeks beforehand, I canceled.

The New York Times

"I canceled my order right there.

The New York Times

Some days, I canceled whole campaign days".

The New York Times

As a result I canceled the trip".

The New York Times

"I canceled the appointment," I said.

The New York Times

"I canceled the pay raises from the Americans," he said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "I canceled", clearly state what was canceled to avoid ambiguity. For example, instead of "I canceled", say "I canceled the meeting".

Common error

Avoid using "I canceled" without specifying what you canceled. This can lead to confusion if the context isn't clear. Always provide the object of the cancellation, such as "I canceled my subscription" or "I canceled our plans".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "I canceled" functions as an independent clause, expressing a completed action by the speaker. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's a direct statement of termination or calling off something. The examples show its use in various scenarios, from canceling orders to appointments.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

82%

Formal & Business

9%

Science

9%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "I canceled" is a grammatically correct and very common way to express the termination of an event, appointment, order, or other arrangement. As Ludwig AI validates, it is suitable for use in a variety of contexts, primarily appearing in news and media. To ensure clarity, it is best practice to specify what was canceled. Common errors involve omitting this information, which can lead to confusion. Consider using alternatives such as "I called off" or "I terminated" for slight variations in meaning. Given its frequent occurrence and diverse applications, mastering the use of "I canceled" is essential for effective communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

I called off

Focuses on the act of calling something off, often used for events or plans.

I terminated

Implies a formal ending or discontinuation, suitable for contracts or agreements.

I rescinded

Suggests the withdrawal of a decision or offer, often in an official context.

I aborted

Indicates stopping something before completion, often due to unforeseen issues.

I put an end to

Emphasizes bringing something to a definitive halt.

I withdrew from

Highlights the act of removing oneself from an agreement or activity.

I backed out of

Suggests a less formal withdrawal, typically from a commitment or arrangement.

I ceased

Implies a stopping or discontinuing of an action or process.

I suspended

Indicates a temporary interruption or postponement.

I nixed

An informal way to say that you rejected or canceled something.

FAQs

What are some alternatives to "I canceled"?

You can use alternatives such as "I called off", "I terminated", or "I rescinded" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "I canceled on someone"?

While commonly used, "I canceled on someone" is less formal. It's better to say "I canceled my appointment with someone" or "I canceled our plans" for clarity and precision.

What does "cancel" mean?

To "cancel" means to decide that an arranged event will not take place, or to stop an order for goods or services.

When should I use "cancel" versus "revoke"?

"Cancel" is generally used for events, appointments, or orders. "Revoke" is used for withdrawing something like a permit, license, or law. For instance, "I canceled the concert tickets", but "I revoked his driving license".