pause

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "pause" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when indicating a temporary stop or break in action or speech. Example: "During the presentation, I had to pause to gather my thoughts before continuing."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sport

Lifestyle

Books

Opinion

Travel

Music

Education

Business

Arts

World

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

A pause.

The New York Times

There was a long pause.

The New York Times

I pause.

The New York Times

There is a pause.

The Guardian

One day, though, I got to ask him the big question: "Tell me sir, why do you think they haven't given you the Nobel prize?" After a long pause and an amused smile, he replied, "Well, it is a European prize, and only once in a while, when they find you worthy, do they give it out to non-Europeans".

The Guardian - Books

"Can we pause for a minute and have a think about the subsequent careers of the stars of The Good Life?

The Guardian

But as always, it's worth a pause to think before taking a large gulp of the Kool-Aid.

The Guardian - Opinion

Facebook Twitter Google plus Share Share this post Facebook Twitter Google plus close 10.41pm BST22 41 84 min: There's a pause while Halliche receives treatment for cramp.

The Guardian - Sport

A steady practice that leaves you a bit better equipped to pause before lashing out, to rise above perceived slights and not be put off by the usual setbacks.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Lynch voiced the highs in an inspiring way, giving herself treats to look forward to such as her brother's wedding and time with friends at Glastonbury, calling the festival "Middle-Class-Tonbury" because she was booked to stay in a camper van: "It was time to take my finger off the pause button and press play on my lovely life once more".

The Guardian

Asked if he thought 1-1 was a fair result, Marcelino replied: "yes", leaving a long pause before adding: "at least".

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

In technical documentation, "pause" can indicate a required delay in a process for optimal performance.

Common error

Avoid using "pause" when you actually mean a complete or indefinite stop. "Pause" implies a temporary cessation, not a final one.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "pause" is versatile, serving as both a noun, denoting a temporary cessation or interruption, and a verb, indicating the act of temporarily stopping an activity. Ludwig AI examples illustrate its role in creating dramatic effect and signifying breaks.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

35%

Lifestyle

15%

Sport

15%

Less common in

Books

10%

Opinion

5%

Travel

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the word "pause" functions as both a noun and a verb, denoting a temporary cessation or interruption. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent usage across diverse contexts. It is particularly common in News & Media, Lifestyle, and Sport, serving to create dramatic effect, allow for reflection, or mark temporary interruptions. Alternatives such as "take a break" or "hold on a moment" can be used depending on the specific nuance intended. When writing, ensure "pause" is not misused for permanent stops. Its versatility and widespread use make "pause" a valuable term in both formal and informal communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

take a break

Suggests a temporary cessation of activity for rest or refreshment.

hold on a moment

Indicates a brief suspension, often in conversation or action.

brief interruption

Emphasizes the temporary nature of the break.

temporary cessation

Highlights the halt of an activity for a limited time.

short intermission

Implies a break between parts of a performance or activity.

a lull in activity

Suggests a temporary period of reduced activity or quiet.

a moment's respite

Indicates a brief period of rest or relief from something difficult.

suspend momentarily

Highlights the act of temporarily stopping something.

a passing quiet

Emphasizes a brief period of calm or silence.

break temporarily

Signifies the halting of something for a short duration.

FAQs

How can I use "pause" in a sentence?

You can use "pause" to indicate a temporary stop in an activity or speech, such as, "During the presentation, I had to "pause" to gather my thoughts before continuing."

What are some alternatives to the word "pause"?

Alternatives include "take a break", "hold on a moment", or "brief interruption", depending on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "take pause" or "pause"?

Both "take pause" and "pause" are correct, but they have slightly different connotations. "Take pause" suggests a deliberate consideration, while "pause" simply indicates a temporary stop.

What is the difference between "pause" and "break"?

"Pause" implies a brief, often momentary, cessation, whereas "break" can indicate a longer or more significant interruption. A "pause" is generally shorter and less formal than a "break".