discontinuance

Discontinuance refers to the act of ending or stopping something that had been ongoing or planned to continue. It can describe stopping an activity, a service, a contract, a medication, or a legal action. The term implies a deliberate and often formal withdrawal, and its precise meaning can vary by context and jurisdiction.

In legal contexts, discontinuance often describes the withdrawal of a civil action before a final judgment. In some jurisdictions the plaintiff may discontinue by notice or with the court's permission; in others the defendant may move to discontinue. The effect is generally to remove the case from active proceedings and to avoid a merits decision, though costs or terms may be awarded as permitted by rule or statute. Discontinuance does not necessarily imply adjudication of the underlying dispute and, depending on law, may influence issues such as res judicata or double jeopardy.

In medicine and pharmacology, discontinuation means stopping a drug, treatment, or dose. Clinicians may recommend tapering to reduce withdrawal risks; abrupt cessation can cause withdrawal symptoms or symptom rebound. Reasons include adverse effects, lack of efficacy, safety concerns, or updated guidelines. Patient communication and monitoring are typically advised.

In business, products or services may be discontinued when they are no longer viable or part of a strategic shift. Discontinuation can involve sunset plans, inventory clearance, discontinuing support, and notifying customers or partners; warranties, contracts, and regulatory obligations may be affected.

The term is often used alongside cessation or termination, but discontinuance frequently carries a sense of formal withdrawal within an ongoing framework.