it stops

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "it stops" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to indicate that something has come to an end or is no longer in operation. Example: "When the timer reaches zero, it stops, and the game is over."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

56 human-written examples

It stops paying bills.

The Economist

It stops it.

The New York Times

Now it stops.

The New Yorker

Then it stops.

The Economist

It stops now".

The Economist

Until it stops.

The Economist

It stops and starts.

Cornell University

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

4 human-written examples

"Stop it, stop it.

The New Yorker

I mean it stopped.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

It stopped trading.

Yale University

It stopped him short.

The New York Times - Books

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "it stops", ensure the context clearly identifies what "it" refers to, avoiding ambiguity. For example, instead of "The noise was annoying, then it stops", specify: "The noise was annoying, then the music stops".

Common error

Avoid using "it stops" when the subject is unclear or too distant in the text. This can lead to confusion. Instead, restate the subject to maintain clarity: "The engine sputtered, and then the engine stops."

Linguistic Context

The phrase "it stops" primarily functions as a statement indicating the cessation of an action or state. Ludwig AI confirms this usage across diverse contexts, emphasizing its role in conveying completion or termination.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

47%

Academia

27%

Wiki

13%

Less common in

Science

7%

Formal & Business

3%

Encyclopedias

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "it stops" is a grammatically sound and frequently used expression that indicates the termination of an action or state. Ludwig AI highlights its versatility across various contexts, including news, academia, and general writing. The phrase is generally neutral in tone, making it suitable for a wide range of communication styles. While direct and effective, writers should ensure that the referent of "it" is clear to avoid ambiguity. For more formal or specialized contexts, consider alternatives such as "it ceases" or "it terminates". In conclusion, "it stops" serves as a reliable and easily understood way to express cessation in both everyday and professional discourse.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

it ceases

This alternative uses a more formal verb to indicate the ending of an action or state.

it halts

This suggests a sudden or abrupt stop, emphasizing the immediacy of the cessation.

it comes to an end

This phrase offers a more descriptive way to express the termination of something, suitable for formal contexts.

it discontinues

This implies a planned or deliberate termination, often used in official or business contexts.

it terminates

This is a more formal synonym for ending, often used in legal or technical contexts.

it concludes

This suggests a finishing or winding up process, more suitable for describing events or processes.

it shuts down

This phrase is used when systems or operations are being stopped, especially when they involve mechanics or technology.

it breaks off

This indicates a sudden or forceful cessation, often used to describe relationships or connections.

it cuts out

This typically applies to engines, devices, or power, indicating a sudden loss of function.

it gives out

This suggests that something stops working due to being used up or exhausted.

FAQs

How can I rephrase "it stops" for variety?

You can use alternatives like "it ceases", "it halts", or "it comes to an end" depending on the context for a more formal tone or emphasis.

Is "it stops" formal or informal?

The phrase "it stops" is generally considered neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. However, for very formal writing, consider using a more sophisticated synonym like "it terminates" or "it concludes".

When is it better to use "it stops" instead of "it ceases"?

"It stops" is more common in everyday language. "It ceases" is more formal and might be preferred in academic or professional writing where a more elevated tone is appropriate.

Can "it stops" be used in different tenses?

Yes, you can modify the tense as needed. For example, "it stopped" (past tense), "it will stop" (future tense), or "it is stopping" (present continuous tense) to fit the timeline of your narrative.