abbruch

Abbruch is a German noun with multiple related meanings centered on ending, stopping, or dismantling. Derived from the verb abbrechen, it denotes the act of interrupting or terminating something that had been begun or planned.

In construction and architecture, Abbruch refers to demolition and dismantling of structures. Abbrucharbeiten cover the process of taking down and removing buildings or parts thereof. While Abriss is also used, Abbruch often emphasizes the procedure and scope, including partial dismantling or selective removal.

In medicine, the term is used for abortion or miscarriage. Schwangerschaftsabbruch is the termination of a pregnancy; a spontaneous abortion is called ein spontaner Abbruch. In clinical and legal contexts, Abbruch is described neutrally; the term's use is sensitive and varies with jurisdiction and legal framework.

In other contexts, Abbruch can denote stopping a course of action, such as der Abbruch eines Projekts, an interruption of a speech, or the early cessation of a process or experiment. In computing and research, Abbruchkriterium or Abbruchbedingung refers to a termination condition that ends a loop or procedure when met. In sports and events, weather or safety concerns can cause an Abbruch of a game or activity.

The term is versatile across domains, with nuances shaped by context. Although closely related terms like Abriss exist, Abbruch’s broader sense encompasses both intentional stoppage and dismantling, as well as more abstract endings of plans, processes, or negotiations.