abrupto

Abrupto is a term used primarily in Spanish as an adjective meaning abrupt, sudden, or steep. It denotes something that happens quickly or a feature that presents a sharp, immediate change, such as a steep slope or a sudden shift in situation. The word derives from Latin abruptus, the past participle of rumpere, meaning “to break off,” and it shares the same root as the English word abrupt.

In practical use, abrupto appears in everyday language to describe both physical and non-physical alterations. Examples include phrases like un cambio abrupto (a sudden change) or una pendiente abrupta (a steep slope). In literary and rhetorical contexts, abrupto can characterize a style or narrative movement that proceeds without gradual buildup, producing a brisk or jarring effect.

In technical domains, abrupto is found in expressions that convey sharp transitions or boundaries, such as formations that change abruptly from one type to another or surfaces that present an abrupt face. The term is also used metaphorically to convey abrupt emotional or behavioral shifts.

Compared with related terms, brusco or repentino are common synonyms in Spanish, but abrupto emphasizes immediacy and a striking quality of change. The word has cognates across Romance languages, and its English equivalent is the word abrupt in most contexts.

See also: abruptness; abrupt boundary; abrupt change.