The word "curtail" is spelled using the IPA phonetic transcription as /kəːˈteɪl/. This word means to reduce or limit something. The spelling of this word can be easily remembered by breaking it into two parts: "cur" and "tail". "Cur" means a dog, and "tail" is the long, narrow part extending from the back of an animal. So, when you curtail something, it's like cutting its tail or limiting its reach. Practice using this word to improve your vocabulary and spelling skills.
The verb "curtail" refers to the act of reducing, limiting, or shortening something, typically in terms of duration, extent, or size. It involves diminishing or restricting an activity, event, object, or process to a lower or more suitable level. This word can also imply the elimination or removal of certain parts, elements, or aspects in order to make a particular thing more concise, focused, or feasible.
Curtailment may be employed in various contexts, such as when managing resources, controlling expenses, or modifying plans. For instance, in financial circumstances, one may curtail unnecessary expenditures or trim the budget to adapt to reduced income. Similarly, in a project or event, curtailment may involve cutting down on less essential features or steps to ensure completion within a set timeframe or to meet specific objectives.
The term can also be used to describe the restriction or hindrance placed on someone's freedom, rights, or actions. This may involve limiting certain privileges, imposing boundaries, or reducing liberties in order to maintain order or comply with regulations. Curtailing in this sense can be associated with curbing, constraining, or restricting behavior or actions that are considered excessive or detrimental to oneself or others.
In summary, "curtail" is a verb that denotes reducing, limiting, or shortening something, either by diminishing its extent or by eliminating certain parts or aspects. It implies a deliberate action taken to make something more manageable, concise, or controlled, which can be applied in various contexts, including finance, projects, events, and personal freedoms.
To shorten; to cut off the end or a part; to abridge or diminish.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.
The word curtail originated in the late 16th century and has its roots in the Middle English term curtalen, which means dock or cut short. This Middle English term is derived from the Anglo-Norman French word courtaud, having the same meaning. The Anglo-Norman word courtaud is a combination of court (meaning short) and the Germanic suffix -ald (meaning having the nature of). Therefore, curtail etymologically means to make short or to cut short.