abandons

USAGE SUMMARY

The part of the phrase "abandons" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when describing the act of leaving something or someone behind, often implying a lack of care or responsibility. Example: "He abandons his responsibilities whenever things get tough."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

For example there are people who seem to always need to have a lover as well as a partner because they dare not rely on just one person in case that person abandons them.

The Guardian - Opinion

"Bloody scuffle" abandons the idea of a worthwhile cause or a heroic fight, and the poem seems to end with the pointless continuation of belligerence for its own sake.

The Guardian - Books

"Hamas no longer participates with the mujahideen," says Abdullah Shami, a veteran of Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ), a more militant rival faction, which increasingly presents itself as the genuine article; Iran, the PIJ's keenest backer, supports it as an insurance policy in case Hamas abandons the battle altogether.But Hamas has not yet given up.

The Economist

HENRIK IBSEN, author of the play "A Doll's House", in which a pretty, frustrated housewife abandons her husband and children to seek a more serious life, would surely have approved.

The Economist

It apparently believes that if their only ally abandons them, the Kims might do something really rash.But they already have.

The Economist

Instead she abandons her pain, drops out of the present into the 15th century, and finds another world in which the inner life takes external shape in myth where devils assail the spirit and angels drive them off, where painted saints listen, and where the journey of the soul passes literally through Venice on its way to Jerusalem.

The Economist

Russia's Duma threatens to tear up the Start-2 arms-cutting treaty it belatedly ratified in April if America abandons its ABM vows.

The Economist

She becomes pregnant, has an abortion and abandons her husband.

The Economist

It could easily split if, for example, the government abandons the unwed-couples bill.

The Economist

It's as sound an idea as one is likely to come across in economics, but others at the conference wondered why he was making it, as the repeal of the deduction is likely to happen sometime after pigs begin to fly (though before New York City abandons rent control).

The Economist

Such gestures are like using a toothpick to fill it in.That means the government may need to issue more bonds next year to bridge the gap, unless there is a strong pickup in growth or the government abandons some of its spending pledges.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "abandons" when you want to convey a sense of irresponsibility or neglect in leaving something or someone. For a more neutral term, consider "leaves".

Common error

Avoid using "abandons" in very formal or professional writing unless you specifically want to highlight the negative connotations of desertion or neglect. Opt for alternatives like "relinquishes" or "discontinues" for a more neutral tone.

Linguistic Context

The word "abandons" functions as a verb, specifically the third-person singular present tense. According to Ludwig AI, it describes the act of leaving someone or something behind, often with implications of neglect or irresponsibility. Examples from Ludwig show its use in describing actions like abandoning a post or a family.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Science

26%

Formal & Business

6%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The term "abandons" is a versatile verb form used to describe the act of leaving someone or something, often with a negative connotation of neglect or irresponsibility. Ludwig AI validates its correct usage and prevalence across various contexts, most notably in news and media. While grammatically sound, it's essential to be mindful of the implied criticism when choosing "abandons" over more neutral alternatives like "leaves behind". When a neutral tone is needed, consider other possibilities like "relinquishes" or "discontinues". The high frequency of "abandons" in reporting and analytical writing highlights its significance in conveying desertion or cessation across a broad range of subjects.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

forsakes

Implies a more deliberate and often emotional act of leaving someone or something.

deserts

Suggests leaving someone or something in a difficult or dangerous situation.

relinquishes

Signifies formally giving up a claim, right, or possession.

leaves behind

A more neutral way of saying abandons, focusing on the physical act of departure.

discontinues

Means to cease doing or providing something.

renounces

Formally declares one's abandonment of a claim, right, or possession.

gives up

Indicates ceasing to make an effort; admitting defeat.

walks away from

Suggests a conscious decision to disengage from a situation or responsibility.

vacates

Means to leave a place, often in a formal or official context.

bows out of

Suggests withdrawing from a commitment or activity, often gracefully.

FAQs

How is "abandons" used in a sentence?

The word "abandons" is used as the third-person singular present tense of the verb "abandon". For example, "He "abandons" his post when things get difficult."

What can I say instead of "abandons"?

You can use alternatives like "forsakes", "deserts", or "relinquishes" depending on the context.

What does it mean to say someone "abandons" something?

To say someone "abandons" something means they leave it behind, often implying a lack of care or responsibility. It suggests a deliberate act of leaving with no intention of returning.

Which is the right term, abandons or "relinquishes"?

Both words convey the concept of giving something up, but "abandons" implies desertion or neglect, while "relinquishes" suggests a formal or voluntary surrender. The right choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.