C1verb formal 10K+

Cease

UK //siːz// US //siːs// Pronunciation

Definition

To bring or come to an end; to stop entirely.

Listen to definition

In simple words: to stop doing something

Examples

• The company decided to cease all operations due to financial difficulties.
• He was ordered to cease and desist from using the trademark.
• As the storm worsened, all outdoor activities had to cease immediately.
• The government will cease funding for the project next year.
• Cease your complaints and focus on finding a solution.

Usage notes

Often used in formal contexts or legal language. Not commonly used in everyday conversation.

Grammar pattern

cease + object

Memory hint

Sounds like 'cease' - Picture a computer screen that stops working.

Collocations

• cease fire
• cease operations
• cease activities

Synonyms

• stop
• terminate
• halt
• discontinue
• end

Antonyms

• begin
• continue
• start

Common mistakes

• Confused with 'seize' (to grab).
• Using 'cease' as a noun rather than a verb.
• Incorrectly conjugating 'cease' in the past tense.