abruptly
UK: /əˈbrʌptli/ | US: /əˈbrʌptli/
adv. suddenly and unexpectedly
adv. in a blunt or curt manner
The word "abruptly" stems from the Latin abruptus (broken off, steep), derived from ab- (away) + rumpere (to break). The root "abrupt" entered English in the late 16th century, originally describing physical steepness before evolving to denote suddenness in action or speech. The suffix "-ly" transforms the adjective into an adverb, preserving the core idea of an unanticipated or jarring transition.
The meeting ended abruptly when the fire alarm sounded.
She turned abruptly and walked away without explanation.
His speech was cut abruptly by technical difficulties.
The road climbs abruptly, making it difficult for cyclists.
He answered so abruptly that it seemed rude.