Terminable

Terminable is an adjective meaning capable of being terminated or brought to an end; subject to termination. It is used to describe contracts, agreements, rights, or conditions that may be ended by one or more parties, or by the occurrence of a specified event. The noun form is terminability; the adverb terminably appears in some contexts but is less common.

Etymology and usage notes: Terminable derives from terminus, the Latin word for end, combined with the suffix -able to indicate capability. In legal and business writing, terminable terms often signal that termination is possible under defined conditions, such as notice requirements or for cause. A lease, contract, or license described as terminable may be ended by one party or by mutual agreement, typically subject to a notice period or specific termination provisions.

In legal contexts, terminology distinguishes between terminable arrangements and those that are irrevocable or indefeasible. Phrases like terminable at will, terminable on notice, or terminable for cause are commonly encountered, reflecting different grounds and notice requirements for ending the arrangement. Terminability can affect risk, renewal prospects, and pricing in contracts and leases.

Related terms include termination (the act of ending), termination clause (the contract provision governing how and when termination may occur), and indefeasibility/irrevocability (antonyms describing arrangements that cannot be terminated). Terminability is a formal concept that highlights the endability of a term, often shaping negotiation and enforcement dynamics in commercial and legal documents.