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to shorten
01
to decrease the length of something
Transitive: to shorten sth
Example
The project deadline was shortened unexpectedly.
The tailor shortened the trousers to fit the customer 's height.
He shortened the curtains to fit the new window.
02
to have a decrease in length of time or duration
Intransitive
Example
As the evening progresses, the wait times at restaurants usually shorten.
During winter, daylight hours noticeably shorten, leading to longer nights and shorter days.
The days began to shorten as autumn approached.
03
to edit a text by removing or modifying parts that are considered unnecessary
Transitive: to shorten a text
Example
In order to comply with publishing guidelines, the author had to shorten the novel.
The playwright was advised to shorten the play.
The speechwriter was asked to shorten the politician 's remarks by removing any potentially offensive remarks.
04
to reduce the length of time or duration of something
Transitive: to shorten duration of something
Example
The technology upgrade will shorten the time required for data processing.
The teacher shortened the assignment deadline to accommodate students ' schedules.
To save time, the coach shortened the duration of the practice session.
Example
The project deadline was shortened unexpectedly.
The tailor shortened the trousers to fit the customer's height.
He shortened the curtains to fit the new window.
She shortened the dress to make it fit better.
The movie was shortened for television to fit the time slot.
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