When something happens in a very abrupt manner, how can it be characterized?

When an event occurs in a very abrupt manner, it can be characterized as sudden. This term conveys the idea of an unexpected change or occurrence that happens without warning or preparation. A sudden event typically brings about immediate impacts, altering situations or conditions quickly and often dramatically. In the context of policing and emergency response, recognizing sudden incidents such as accidents or critical situations is crucial for effective intervention and management.

The other options do not capture this sense of immediacy. "Gradual" implies a slow and steady change over time, which is contrary to the nature of something abrupt. "Steady" refers to consistent or stable occurrences without fluctuations, while "frequent" indicates the repetition of events over time but does not address how quickly they happen. Therefore, the characterization of an abrupt event as sudden is accurately reflected in the correct choice.