Abeyance

Abeyance

Definition

The word abeyance refers to a state of temporary inactivity, suspension, or being held in reserve. When something is in abeyance, it is not currently active or being pursued but is instead put on hold or pending further action. In legal terms, abeyance can refer to a situation where the ownership of property or rights is temporarily in a state of uncertainty or pending clarification. This often occurs when there is a delay in legal proceedings or when there are unresolved issues regarding ownership.

In a broader sense, abeyance can also describe a state of suspension or pause in any process or activity. For example, a project may be put in abeyance if there are budget constraints or if key team members are unavailable. The concept of abeyance Is often used to indicate a temporary state of limbo or uncertainty, where decisions or actions are deferred until certain conditions are met or circumstances change. It implies a sense of waiting or being on hold until a resolution or decision is reached.

Example sentences
The construction project was put in abeyance due to a lack of funding.
The legal case was held in abeyance until further evidence could be presented.
The company decided to put their expansion plans in abeyance until market conditions improved.
The decision on the new policy was left in abeyance pending approval from senior management.
The negotiations between the two parties were in abeyance as they couldn’t reach a compromise.