C1nounformal3K

Abortion

UK /["/əˈbɔːʃn/"]/US /["/əˈbɔːrʃn/"]/

Definition

the deliberate ending of a pregnancy at an early stage

In simple words: The medical process to remove a pregnancy from the body.

Examples

  • to **support/oppose abortion**
  • a woman’s right to abortion
  • the country's strict abortion laws
  • Both pro-choice and anti-abortion groups want to ensure their voices are heard.
  • She decided to **have an abortion**.
  • Some medical staff wanted the right to refuse to perform abortions.

Usage notes

This term is primarily used in discussions about reproductive rights and health care. It's considered formal, so it may not be suitable for casual conversation. In contexts involving personal beliefs, be mindful of the sensitivity surrounding the topic.

Grammar pattern

abortion + noun (e.g., abortion rights)

Memory hint

Think of 'abortion' as 'A-BORT-ion' - picture someone 'borting' their way out of a situation they don't want.

Collocations

  • legal
  • legalized
  • elective
  • have
  • obtain
  • procure
  • clinic
  • counselling/​counseling
  • pill
  • abortion on demand
  • legal
  • legalized
  • elective
  • have
  • obtain
  • procure
  • clinic
  • counselling/​counseling
  • pill
  • abortion on demand

Synonyms

  • termination
  • miscarriage

Antonyms

  • pregnancy
  • birth
  • continuation

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'miscarriage' - abortion is a choice, while miscarriage is not planned.
  • Using 'abort' incorrectly; 'abort' can also mean to cancel a plan, so context matters.
  • Mixing up legal and medical terms related to abortion.