for a pause

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "for a pause" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when indicating a temporary stop or break in speech or action. Example: "He took a deep breath for a pause before continuing his speech."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

"We're due for a pause".

The New York Times

There is no reason for a pause.

The New York Times

The only cause for a pause?

The Guardian - Tech

Until recently, he was himself arguing for a pause.

The Economist

Even the CBI has called for a "pause".

The Guardian - Opinion

"I am pleading for a pause for thought".

The New York Times

Not a terrible affliction, though you too might wish for a pause button.

The New York Times

Each speaker then reads the piece once, allowing for a pause in between readings.

The New York Times

But when crowing descends into vituperative jingoism, I think it's time for a pause.

The Guardian

He called for a pause in the award of any more government contracts to G4S.

The Guardian - Sport

Now, with major indexes near record highs, many think the stock market's six-week rally is ready for a pause.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Vary your language by using synonyms like "for a break" or "for a respite" to avoid repetition and add nuance to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "for a pause" when referring to permanent or long-term cessation. Opt for phrases like "for termination" or "for a definitive end" instead.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "for a pause" primarily functions as a prepositional phrase. It typically modifies a verb or noun, indicating the reason or purpose behind an action. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and usability. For example, one might call "for a pause" in negotiations.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

49%

Science

22%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Wiki

8%

Reference

6%

Encyclopedias

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "for a pause" is a grammatically sound and versatile prepositional phrase, commonly used to indicate or request a temporary interruption. As Ludwig AI validates, it sees frequent use across diverse contexts, from News & Media to Science. While "for a pause" is generally appropriate, consider alternatives like "for a break" or "for a respite" to add nuance. Ensure you don't use it to describe permanent actions; opt for phrases implying finality instead. Understanding these nuances helps writers communicate precisely and effectively. By keeping this writing guidance in mind, you can master the use of the phrase "for a pause".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

for a break

Replaces "pause" with "break", indicating a more general cessation of activity.

for a temporary halt

Offers a more descriptive alternative, explicitly stating the temporary nature of the cessation.

for a respite

Substitutes "pause" with "respite", implying a temporary relief from something difficult or unpleasant.

for a brief interruption

Similar to "temporary halt", but focuses on the act of interrupting something.

for a lull

Replaces "pause" with "lull", suggesting a temporary period of calm or quiet.

to have a moment of pause

Adds emphasis on the duration and intention to pause

for a hiatus

Substitutes "pause" with "hiatus", indicating a more formal or extended interruption.

to take a breather

Expresses the need for a pause to rest or recover.

for a standstill

Replaces "pause" with "standstill", emphasizing a complete cessation of movement or activity.

for a temporal cessation

Replacing words with more technical vocabulary.

FAQs

How can I use "for a pause" in a sentence?

You can use "for a pause" to indicate a temporary stop or break. For example: "The negotiations allowed "for a pause" in the fighting." or "She waited "for a pause" in the music before speaking.

What can I say instead of "for a pause"?

You can use alternatives such as "for a break", "for a respite", or "for a lull", depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "take a pause" or "have a pause" instead of "for a pause"?

While "take a pause" or "have a pause" are grammatically correct, "for a pause" typically functions as a prepositional phrase modifying a verb or noun. For example, "call "for a pause"" is more common than "call to take a pause".

When is it inappropriate to use the phrase "for a pause"?

It might be inappropriate to use "for a pause" when describing something intended to be permanent. In such cases, using alternatives like "for termination" or "for cessation" would be more suitable.