a small pause

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a small pause" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a brief interruption or break in speech or action. Example: "After a small pause, she continued her presentation with renewed confidence."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

11 human-written examples

There was a small pause.

The New Yorker

There's a small pause.

The Guardian

We're merely taking a small pause in the conversation.

The Guardian

Before you do, take just a moment, a small pause, and walk through a few steps to avoid making a big mistake.

The New York Times

Kumar added that many artists and writers continue to fight for expression without western fame, and that he hopes that the gesture of the letter is an "appeal for a small pause".

The Guardian - Books

The use of stress and strain differences taken at the end of a small pause introduced at each reversal eliminated the dual nature of the curve.

International Journal of Fatigue

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

A small, dry pause.

The Guardian - Books

There is a small, reflective pause.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Once or twice I have seen a small boy pause outside the George Hotel to read the inscription on the wall.

The Guardian

At the end of the night she thrusts her hand into her large bag, pulls out a hand stamp and adorns the sketches with a small red "Pause for Pegasus" stamp, always bestowing glowing compliments on the work.

The New York Times

Small pause.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In dialogue, use "a small pause" to indicate a character's hesitation, contemplation, or emotional response, adding depth and realism to the interaction.

Common error

Avoid excessive use of "a small pause", as it can disrupt the flow of your writing or speech. Instead, vary your sentence structure and pacing to create a more natural rhythm. Too many pauses can make your delivery seem disjointed or uncertain.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a small pause" primarily functions as a noun phrase, often acting as the subject or object of a sentence. It describes a brief cessation or interruption in activity, speech, or thought. According to Ludwig AI, the phrase is used correctly and is applicable in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

23%

Wiki

14%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a small pause" is a grammatically sound and frequently used noun phrase that describes a brief interruption. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is correctly employed across various writing styles. Its primary function is to indicate a temporary cessation for emphasis or reflection. While versatile, overusing the phrase should be avoided to maintain a natural flow in writing. It is used more in News & Media than Formal & Business or Academia. Therefore, when aiming for impactful delivery, consider using "a small pause" to effectively pace your content.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a fleeting pause

Focuses on the transience of the interruption.

a momentary silence

Emphasizes the lack of sound during the pause.

a brief respite

Focuses on the relieving aspect of the pause, implying a short period of rest or relief.

a slight hesitation

Highlights the uncertainty or reluctance implied by the pause.

a short intermission

Suggests a temporary break, often used in the context of performances or events.

a short lull

Suggests a period of quiet or inactivity.

a quick break

Implies a rapid and informal cessation of activity.

a temporary cessation

A more formal way of describing a pause, emphasizing its temporary nature.

a minor interruption

Emphasizes the disruptive nature of the pause.

a fractional delay

Highlights the brevity of the pause in terms of time.

FAQs

How can I use "a small pause" effectively in writing?

Use "a small pause" to create suspense, emphasize a key point, or indicate a character's internal thoughts or emotions. It can also be used to vary the pace of your writing and keep the reader engaged.

What are some alternatives to "a small pause"?

You can use alternatives like "a brief respite", "a momentary silence", or "a slight hesitation" depending on the specific context and the nuance you want to convey.

Is it grammatically correct to say "a small pause"?

Yes, "a small pause" is grammatically correct. It follows the standard English word order of article + adjective + noun.

When is it appropriate to use "a small pause" in speech?

It's appropriate to use "a small pause" in speech to gather your thoughts, create emphasis, or allow your audience to process information. It can also be used to indicate hesitation or uncertainty.