moments of suspense

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "moments of suspense" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe instances in a narrative or story where tension or uncertainty is heightened, keeping the audience engaged. Example: "The film was filled with moments of suspense that kept the audience on the edge of their seats."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

17 human-written examples

The show has as many moments of suspense and showdown as "Survivor" and "American Idol" combined.

The New York Times

They heighten the tension (frustratingly) by interrupting the moments of suspense.

The Guardian

You can never predict a Mathers adventure, with its tiny moments of suspense and daffy detours.

The New York Times - Books

Jerry Goldsmith's superb score uses strings and percussion during moments of suspense and a distant, and bluesy trumpet for elegiac, contemplative scenes.

The Guardian - Film

The resultant film, Casting Call, a "supernatural thriller", uses lots of different styles, from a car chase to moments of suspense and humour.

The Guardian

Jerry Goldsmith's superb score uses strings and percussion during moments of suspense and a distant, bluesy trumpet for elegiac, contemplative scenes.

The Guardian - Film

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

43 human-written examples

There is a moment of suspense.

The New Yorker

The biggest moment of suspense has nothing to do with international politics or terrorism.

The New York Times

There was a moment of suspense, then a shout, a pointing hand.

The New Yorker

There is a moment of suspense – literally – at the end of the episode.

The Guardian - TV & Radio

Here was a rare moment of suspense, a hint of real human emotion (panic!) slipping out.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "moments of suspense" to effectively build anticipation and keep your audience engaged in a narrative, ensuring each moment contributes to the overall tension.

Common error

Avoid relying too heavily on "moments of suspense" without delivering on the promise of that tension. Too much build-up without resolution can lead to reader frustration.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "moments of suspense" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It typically acts as a subject, object, or complement within a sentence, describing specific instances where anticipation and uncertainty are heightened. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is grammatically correct and widely used.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

22%

Academia

11%

Less common in

Wiki

11%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "moments of suspense" is a grammatically sound and commonly used noun phrase, primarily functioning to describe instances of heightened anticipation and uncertainty. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's suitable for various contexts, particularly in news and media, science, and academic writing. To enhance your writing, focus on building those "moments", while preventing the frustration of a build-up without resolution. Consider using alternatives like "tense situations" or "nail-biting scenes" for variety. The phrase's neutral register and frequent usage in authoritative sources make it a valuable addition to any writer's toolkit.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

periods of heightened tension

Rephrases the idea using more formal and descriptive language.

nail-biting scenes

Emphasizes the anxiety and excitement associated with these moments.

edge-of-seat experiences

Describes experiences that keep the audience highly engaged and anxious.

tense situations

Focuses on the tension inherent in the situation rather than the anticipation.

anxiously awaited moments

Focuses on the anticipation and expectation associated with these moments.

cliffhangers

Refers to moments where the outcome is uncertain and creates strong anticipation.

dramatic pauses

Emphasizes the use of silence or breaks to create suspense.

critical junctures

Highlights the importance of the moment and the uncertainty of the result.

uncertain interludes

Uses a more literary and sophisticated vocabulary.

pivotal scenes

Highlights the importance and potential impact of these moments.

FAQs

How can I effectively create "moments of suspense" in my writing?

Build "moments of suspense" by gradually revealing information, creating obstacles for characters, and using foreshadowing to hint at potential danger or conflict.

What are some alternative phrases to "moments of suspense"?

You can use alternatives such as "tense situations", "cliffhangers", or "nail-biting scenes" depending on the specific context.

In what types of writing is the phrase "moments of suspense" most commonly used?

The phrase "moments of suspense" is commonly used in fiction, film reviews, and news articles to describe events or scenes that create tension and anticipation.

How does "moments of suspense" differ from "moments of tension"?

"Moments of suspense" implies a sense of anticipation and uncertainty about what will happen next, while "moments of tension" refers more broadly to situations of stress or conflict.