a loaded pause

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a loaded pause" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a moment of silence that carries significant meaning or emotional weight in conversation or speech. Example: "During the debate, there was a loaded pause before she responded, indicating the gravity of her thoughts."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

Some of it was" — a loaded pause — "pretty good".

The New Yorker

But when I ask what he thinks motivates Smith, after a loaded pause he replies, "Er.

The Guardian

There is a gasp in the music, a loaded pause, and then the musical line resumes.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

There's a finely poised composition for the two women, all loaded pauses and sensuously supported back bends, but the final duet for the two men – wheeling, challenging, cleaving – is perhaps the most fully realised of the nine.

The Guardian

The solemnness of the doctor; the loaded pause as the nurse asks: "Is anyone with you today?"; the strategically placed box of tissues.

The Guardian - Opinion

His long, loaded pauses say more than his words do.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Loaded pauses and … belaboured accentuation as the automotive irritants vroom through another joke … about driveshafts.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Asked what he thought about the movement, he hesitated and called it "a loaded question," but after a short pause began to express his support.

The New York Times

When Ellen asks if it's too late for her to reapply for the job, Hewes says, "I think it'd be a waste of time, Ellen," then pauses dramatically, unleashes a loaded half-smile, adds, "You're hired," and, with a look that sings, "Come on-a my house, I'm gonna give you candy," turns and sails away.

The New Yorker

That is a loaded term.

The Economist

Not with a loaded field.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a loaded pause" to create suspense or highlight a character's internal conflict before they speak. It can be more effective than directly stating their feelings.

Common error

Avoid using "a loaded pause" when a simple silence would suffice. Overusing it can make your writing melodramatic or predictable.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a loaded pause" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as a subject or object in a sentence to describe a moment of silence that is full of unspoken meaning or tension. As Ludwig suggests, it signifies a deliberate break in conversation, pregnant with anticipation.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a loaded pause" effectively describes a moment of silence thick with unspoken meaning, tension, or anticipation. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's grammatically correct and best used to create suspense or reveal a character's internal state. Predominantly found in news and media contexts, the phrase can be a powerful tool for writers. Remember to use it judiciously to avoid melodrama. Alternatives such as "pregnant pause" or "significant silence" can offer nuanced variations. Ultimately, mastering the use of "a loaded pause" adds depth and intrigue to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

A pregnant pause

Emphasizes the anticipation and implied meaning contained within the silence.

A significant silence

Highlights the importance and weight of the unspoken words during the pause.

A meaningful hesitation

Focuses on the deliberate and thoughtful nature of the pause before speaking.

An expectant silence

Stresses the anticipation and expectation surrounding the pause.

A weighty pause

Indicates the serious or consequential nature of the pause.

A charged silence

Highlights the tension and emotional energy present during the pause.

A dramatic pause

Emphasizes the theatrical or performative aspect of the pause.

A telling silence

Suggests that the pause reveals unspoken thoughts or feelings.

A deliberate lull

Focuses on the intentional nature of the temporary cessation of speech.

An ominous stillness

Implies a sense of foreboding or impending negativity during the pause.

FAQs

How can "a loaded pause" enhance storytelling?

"A loaded pause" is useful for building suspense, revealing unspoken emotions, or signaling a significant shift in the narrative. It prompts the audience to anticipate what will be said or done next.

What are some alternatives to "a loaded pause"?

You can use alternatives like "pregnant pause", "significant silence", or "meaningful hesitation" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "a loaded pause" a formal or informal expression?

"A loaded pause" is generally suitable for both formal and informal writing, though its impact is strongest in narrative contexts where emotional weight and anticipation are desired.

How does "a loaded pause" differ from a regular pause?

While a regular pause is simply a break in speech, "a loaded pause" carries a significant subtext of unspoken thoughts, emotions, or intentions. It suggests there's more to the silence than just the absence of words.