shorten
Elementary (A2)
IPA: /ˈʃɔːrtn/
KK: /ˈʃɔrtən/
intransitive verb
Definition
To become less in length or duration.
Example
The meeting will shorten if everyone is on time.
Tense Forms
Past: shortened
Past Participle: shortened
Conversation
I noticed my favorite sweater seems to shorten after every wash.
Really? That’s so annoying!
Yeah, I guess I should read the care label more carefully.
Definitely! It might help to keep it in good shape.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
diminish
reduce
contract
Antonyms
lengthen
extend
prolong
transitive verb
Definition
To make something shorter in length, duration, or extent.
Example
We need to shorten the meeting to fit into our schedule.
Tense Forms
Past: shortened
Past Participle: shortened
Conversation
I think I need to shorten my essay a bit.
Yeah, it might be too long for the assignment.
What do you suggest I cut out to shorten it?
Root Explanation
Shorten → It is formed from "short" (from Old English *sceort*, meaning not long) and "-en" (a suffix used to form verbs indicating to make or become). The word "shorten" means to make something shorter or to reduce its length.
Memory Tip
Think of making something 'not long' ('short') into a verb with '-en' that means to make it so. This helps you remember that 'shorten' means to make something shorter.
Visually Confused Words
shotten
chorten
shote
preshorten
hortense