Stop abruptly when time-out is cancelled (5,3)

I believe the answer is:

break off

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'stop abruptly' is the definition.
'break off' can be an answer for 'stop' (breaking off is a kind of stopping). I am unsure of the 'abruptly' bit.

'time-out is cancelled' is the wordplay.
'time-out' becomes 'break' (synonyms).
'is cancelled' becomes 'off' (similar in meaning).
'break'+'off'='BREAK OFF'

'when' is the link.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Another definition for break off that I've seen is " Abruptly end (a thing)".)

I've seen this clue in The Globe and Mail.

Want a hint initially instead of a full solution? Install my app