Translation guide
The act of stopping or ending something. In Japanese, the best word depends on what is stopping: an activity, a state, a supply, or a formal agreement.
To stop doing something, often temporarily or permanently.
Common for stopping an ongoing activity, event, or plan. Often implies a deliberate decision to halt.
雨のため試合は中止になった。
The game was called off due to rain.
Used for stopping movement, operation, or function, often of machines or systems. Can also be used for suspension of activities.
エンジンが突然停止した。
The engine suddenly stopped.
Implies a pause or temporary halt, often with the intention to resume.
工事は一時休止された。
Construction was temporarily suspended.
To bring a state or condition to an end, often permanently.
General term for ending or finishing something, such as a period, event, or contract.
契約は来月で終了する。
The contract will end next month.
Often used for the conclusion of a conflict, war, or long-standing situation.
To cut off or discontinue something that was being provided.
Also used for cutting off services like water, electricity, or payments.
電気の供給が停止された。
The electricity supply was cut off.
Implies an abrupt or forced termination, often of a program, funding, or serialized publication.
To formally end an agreement, treaty, or legal state.
Used for abolishing a system, law, or practice.
その法律は廃止された。
The law was abolished.
Often used for dissolving a partnership, alliance, or contract.
中止 (ちゅうし) is for stopping an event or activity, often due to external factors. 停止 (ていし) is for stopping movement or function, like a machine or service. 休止 (きゅうし) implies a temporary pause with intention to resume.
The English word 'cessation' is formal and often used in specific contexts. In Japanese, using the noun form directly can sound unnatural. Often a verb phrase like ～をやめる or ～が止まる is more natural.
戦争の終結を願う。
We hope for an end to the war.
その番組は打ち切りになった。
The show was cancelled.
提携を解消する。
To dissolve the partnership.