cancel
word
Definition
To decide that something planned will not happen, or to stop an agreement, order, or service before it continues. It is commonly used for events, reservations, subscriptions, and appointments.
Usage & Nuances
Common patterns are 'cancel a meeting', 'cancel a flight', 'cancel an order', and 'cancel a subscription'. For reservations, 'cancel' means you decide not to keep it; for a person who chooses not to go, English often says they 'cancel on someone'. Do not confuse it with 'postpone', which means move to a later time.
Example Sentences
They canceled the game because of rain.
basic
I need to cancel my dentist appointment.
basic
She canceled her order online.
basic
If the weather gets worse, they might cancel the concert.
natural
Don’t cancel on me at the last minute this time.
natural
I finally canceled that streaming subscription I never use.
natural