after a dramatic pause

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "after a dramatic pause" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a moment in speech or writing where a pause is intentionally created for effect, often to build suspense or emphasize a point. Example: "He looked around the room, and after a dramatic pause, he finally revealed the truth."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

10 human-written examples

"China," he said after a dramatic pause.

The Guardian

Then, after a dramatic pause, he announced that the programme would be briefly adjourned.

The Economist

After a dramatic pause, an aide handed Ashcroft a plastic bag of the type used to protect courtroom evidence; it contained a book bound in red leather.

The New Yorker

"After a dramatic pause," as the Times put it the next day, Souter said, "I wasn't expecting that kind of a question.

The New Yorker

Judy Muller, a network correspondent for ABC, recalls that when she shifted from radio to television a decade ago, a consultant reviewed her tapes, and said one word, after a dramatic pause: Scarf.

The New York Times

The writers come closer to capturing his effect when they refer to his artistry his "imagination, touch, and control"—as when, on the sixteenth hole of the final round of the 2005 Masters, he chipped from off the green, his ball rolling on a perfect line and carrying just enough speed to gently tumble, after a dramatic pause, into the hole.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

49 human-written examples

Then came a dramatic pause.

The New York Times

"The duck says" — he looks up, for a dramatic pause — "quack".

The New Yorker

There is a dramatic pause, before she responds with a straight face.

The Guardian - Arts

Every time an actor took a dramatic pause, I expected laughter, and was seldom disappointed.

The New York Times - Arts

Why don't we give Nivea man a girlfriend?" There's a dramatic pause.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "after a dramatic pause" to build suspense or emphasize a key point in your narrative. It signals to the reader or listener that something important is about to be revealed.

Common error

Avoid using "after a dramatic pause" too frequently, as it can become predictable and lose its impact. Reserve it for moments that genuinely warrant heightened anticipation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "after a dramatic pause" functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb by indicating when something occurred. It sets the stage for an action or revelation following an intentional break, as illustrated in the examples provided by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Wiki

20%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Science

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "after a dramatic pause" is a phrase used to build suspense and signal importance. Ludwig AI indicates the phrase is grammatically correct and usable in written English. It functions as an adverbial phrase, typically found in news and media contexts. While it's generally acceptable, overusing it can diminish its impact. Alternatives like "following a pregnant pause" or "after a suspenseful silence" can provide variety. Use it judiciously to enhance the effect of your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

following a pregnant pause

This alternative uses "pregnant pause" to describe a pause filled with unspoken meaning or anticipation, offering a slightly different nuance.

after a suspenseful silence

This phrase replaces "dramatic pause" with "suspenseful silence", highlighting the tension created by the pause.

with a theatrical break

This option replaces "dramatic pause" with "theatrical break", emphasizing the performative aspect of the pause.

following a significant pause

This alternative uses "significant pause", indicating that the pause carries importance or meaning.

after a weighty silence

This option replaces "dramatic pause" with "weighty silence", suggesting the pause is heavy with emotion or consequence.

subsequent to a calculated pause

This phrase describes a pause that is deliberately planned or intentional, giving the pause a strategic quality.

after a momentary hesitation

This alternative replaces "dramatic pause" with "momentary hesitation", diminishing the dramatic effect to create more natural pause.

following an artful pause

This phrase uses "artful pause" to describe a pause is skillfully created, adding emphasis on its artistry.

with a pregnant suspension

This expression is similar to "following a pregnant pause" but replaces the word pause with suspension, putting emphasis on the expectation created.

after a deliberate silence

Here, the pause is presented as something deliberate, meant for emphasis and careful consideration, thus highlighting the intent.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "after a dramatic pause" in writing?

Use "after a dramatic pause" to build suspense before revealing crucial information, a plot twist, or a character's reaction. It prepares the audience for a significant moment.

What are some alternatives to "after a dramatic pause"?

You can use alternatives like "following a pregnant pause", "after a suspenseful silence", or "with a theatrical break" to vary your writing.

Is "after a dramatic pause" suitable for formal writing?

While generally acceptable, "after a dramatic pause" is more common in narrative or creative writing. For formal contexts, consider alternatives that convey a similar meaning with a more professional tone.

What effect does "after a dramatic pause" have on the reader?

"After a dramatic pause" creates anticipation and heightened interest, signaling that what follows is particularly important or surprising, thereby engaging the reader more deeply.