is in abeyance

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "is in abeyance" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to indicate that something is temporarily inactive or suspended, often in legal or formal contexts. Example: "The decision regarding the new policy is in abeyance until further review by the committee."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

19 human-written examples

The euro crisis is in abeyance, not at an end.

The Economist

But history is in abeyance; Ackroyd overlooks those facts.

The New York Times - Books

The modern epitaph is in abeyance though not dead.

The Guardian - Books

The issue of legislation is in abeyance, pending new parliamentary elections.

The New Yorker

(The Aaron Copland trumpet of lonely American power is in abeyance).

The New Yorker

Whether it's better to dump him or keep him is in abeyance.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

41 human-written examples

It's in abeyance.

The New York Times

Ethnic animosities are in abeyance, but they are not gone.

The New York Times

The euro crisis may be in abeyance for now.

The New York Times

The normal rules of the song recital are in abeyance.

The Guardian - Books

ON this summer day, the Lyme symptoms are in abeyance.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "is in abeyance" when referring to something formally suspended, like a law, rule, or official process. It's best suited for formal and professional contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "is in abeyance" in everyday conversation or informal writing. Simpler alternatives like "on hold" or "suspended" are more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "is in abeyance" functions as a predicative expression, indicating that a subject is in a state of temporary inactivity or suspension. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness. Examples show this is used across various contexts to denote something being temporarily paused.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

44%

Encyclopedias

10%

Formal & Business

8%

Less common in

Science

38%

Wiki

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "is in abeyance" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression to denote that something is temporarily suspended or inactive. As Ludwig AI confirms, it commonly appears in formal contexts such as news reports, legal documents, and encyclopedic entries. While alternatives like "is on hold" or "is suspended" exist, "is in abeyance" carries a distinct sense of formality and is best reserved for professional and official communications. Therefore, while it's a perfectly acceptable phrase, be mindful of the register and context in which it is used.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

is suspended

This alternative directly implies a temporary halt in activity or operation.

is on hold

Indicates a temporary pause, often awaiting further action or decision.

is deferred

Suggests postponement to a later time.

is postponed

Implies a delay to a specific future time.

is tabled

Means to put aside for future consideration, often in a formal setting.

is shelved

Indicates that something is put aside, often with no immediate plans for revival.

is inactive

Simply means not currently active or functioning.

is interrupted

Signifies a disruption that causes a temporary cessation.

is latent

Implies a state of dormancy or potential that is not currently active.

is quiescent

Suggests a state of stillness or inactivity.

FAQs

How can I use "is in abeyance" in a sentence?

The phrase "is in abeyance" indicates that something is temporarily suspended or inactive. For example, "The new regulations are "on hold" pending further review."

What's the difference between "is in abeyance" and "is suspended"?

"Is in abeyance" often implies a more formal or legal suspension, while "is suspended" can be used more broadly. "Is in abeyance" suggests the suspension is expected to be temporary.

What can I say instead of "is in abeyance"?

You can use alternatives like "is on hold", "is suspended", or "is deferred" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use "is in abeyance"?

Use "is in abeyance" when referring to laws, rules, or processes that are temporarily inactive, especially in formal or legal settings.