Countermands are actions or orders that overturn previous decisions. When people want to convey this idea, there are several synonyms that can be used. For instance, the term "cancel" can imply the reversal of an earlier directive or decision. "Rescind" is another synonym that also conveys the connotation of overturning a previous action. The word "revoke" is another similar term that people can use, indicating the invalidation of an earlier decision. Other alternative synonyms include "overturn", "annul", and "quash". Whatever synonym is used, the underlying theme is always the same: the reversal or nullification of a prior command or order.