Verb
/abɾˈtaɾ/
In Spanish, "abortar" primarily means to terminate a pregnancy, often referred to in the context of medically induced abortion. It can also refer to the failure of a mission or plan, derived from its broader meaning of ending something prematurely. The term is more frequently used in written contexts, particularly in legal and medical discussions, but it is also present in oral discourse when discussing sensitive topics regarding pregnancy.
"Ella decidió abortar tras recibir asesoramiento médico."
"She decided to abort after receiving medical advice."
"El proyecto tuvo que abortar debido a la falta de fondos."
"The project had to abort due to a lack of funds."
"Muchos debates giran en torno a la legalidad de abortar."
"Many debates revolve around the legality of aborting."
The term "abortar" frequently appears in idiomatic expressions, particularly in contexts related to stopping or ending something abruptly:
"Abortar a última hora."
"To abort at the last minute."
This phrase denotes stopping an action or decision right before it is implemented.
"Abortar el intento."
"To abort the attempt."
This phrase suggests that someone has decided to stop trying to achieve a particular goal.
"Abortar una misión."
"To abort a mission."
Typically used in military or strategic contexts, indicating that a planned operation is cancelled.
"No puedo abortar el plan ahora."
"I can't abort the plan now."
This implies a commitment to continuing with a predetermined course of action despite challenges.
"El equipo decidió abortar la búsqueda."
"The team decided to abort the search."
This is often used when a search or investigation is deemed no longer viable or safe.
The word "abortar" comes from the Latin verb "abortare," which means "to miscarry" or "to bring forth prematurely," composed of the prefix "a-" (meaning "away from") and "tortus," (to twist, bend), suggesting a deviation from the normal course of development.
Synonyms: - Interrumpir (to interrupt) - Terminar (to finish/terminate)
Antonyms: - Continuar (to continue) - Proseguir (to proceed)