moratorium on

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "moratorium on" is correct and usable in written English.
It is typically used to refer to a temporary suspension or halt of an activity or process, often in legal, governmental, or organizational contexts. Example: "The city council has declared a moratorium on new construction permits until further studies are completed."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

Gorbachev asked them for a one-month moratorium on demonstrations.

Wikipedia

"Declare a moratorium on detention.

The Guardian

*Repealing the moratorium on offshore drilling.

The New York Times

How about a moratorium on Nazis?

The New York Times - Arts

Mr. Netanyahu's moratorium on settlement construction expires on Sept. 26.

The New York Times

There is currently a moratorium on the conversion of S.R.O.

The New Yorker

A moratorium on hiring  will remain in place.

Independent

Can we please have a moratorium on private-school interviews?

The New York Times

We thus need a moratorium on uranium mining.

The Economist

There is, in effect, a multilateral moratorium on testing.

The New York Times

To declare a moratorium on executions was amazingly bold stuff".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "moratorium on" when you want to indicate a temporary suspension of an activity, especially in formal or official contexts, such as government policies or business operations.

Common error

Avoid using "moratorium on" when you intend to convey a permanent ban or cessation. A "moratorium" is inherently temporary. For permanent cessation, use phrases like "ban on" or "abolition of".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "moratorium on" functions as a prepositional phrase typically used after a verb such as 'declare', 'impose', or 'lift'. It indicates a temporary suspension or prohibition of a specific activity or process. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage in numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Encyclopedias

18%

Science

13%

Less common in

Wiki

11%

Formal & Business

8%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "moratorium on" is a common and grammatically correct way to express a temporary suspension or halt of an activity. Ludwig AI's analysis of numerous examples from authoritative sources confirms its widespread usage, particularly in news, encyclopedias, and science. When writing, remember that a "moratorium" is temporary, differentiating it from a permanent ban. Alternatives such as "temporary suspension of" or "halt to" can be used depending on the desired level of formality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Temporary suspension of

Replaces "moratorium" with a more descriptive term while retaining the sense of temporariness.

Temporary halt to

Uses simpler vocabulary to convey the same meaning of a temporary stop.

Cease-fire on

Implies a pause or cessation of activity, often used in conflict situations.

Standstill on

Suggests a complete stop or lack of progress on a particular issue.

Freeze on

Indicates a holding pattern or prevention of further action.

Hiatus on

Implies a deliberate break or interruption in activity.

Stay on

Offers a legal or formal suspension, often in court contexts.

Deferral of

Suggests postponing or delaying an action or decision.

Respite from

Implies temporary relief or a break from something burdensome.

Postponement of

Formally delays a scheduled event or action to a later time.

FAQs

What does it mean to declare a "moratorium on" something?

Declaring a "moratorium on" something means to temporarily suspend or halt a particular activity. It's often used in situations where there's a need for a pause to reassess or address underlying issues.

How long does a "moratorium on" something typically last?

The duration of a "moratorium on" something varies depending on the specific context and the reasons for its implementation. It can last for a few months, a year, or even several years, depending on the situation.

What are some synonyms for "moratorium on"?

Some synonyms for "moratorium on" include "temporary suspension of", "temporary halt to", or "freeze on" depending on the context.

When is it appropriate to use the phrase "moratorium on"?

The phrase "moratorium on" is appropriate in formal contexts, such as government policies, business operations, or legal proceedings, where there's a need to temporarily suspend a particular activity or practice.