pause in the flow

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "pause in the flow" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a temporary interruption or break in a continuous process or movement, often in a metaphorical sense. Example: "During the meeting, there was a noticeable pause in the flow of conversation as everyone considered the implications of the new policy."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

3 human-written examples

A good novel is like a welcome pause in the flow of our existence; a great novel is forever revisitable.

The New York Times - Books

Eyesight blurs a little in the haze, and throats tighten, but the only real pause in the flow of people comes at the sight of the Stock Exchange itself, draped in a huge American flag.

The New York Times

This may be hard to credit, but Brown addresses the subject with a level of detail that is likely to lead to a temporary pause in the flow of invitations to St. James's Palace.

The New Yorker

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

57 human-written examples

To be consistent emotionally, less reactive (raise your hand if that's desirable to you!) the starting point is a simple pause, an opening in the flow of time, a willingness to see what is viable and be more available to your potential for awareness.

Huffington Post

It is easy to get discouraged if you hit a roadblock that temporarily creates a pause or a slowing down in the flow of your transition.

Huffington Post

Specifically, the study examined three interruption mechanisms: (1) dialogue dependent, that occurs freely in the flow of the dialogue; (2) speech dependent, that occurs during the pauses in the dialogue; and (3) context independent, that is randomly.

BMC Psychiatry

During a pause in the fighting, Georgian military personnel appeared to be flowing into the city.

The New York Times

It was as if he simply paused the flow of his life, in the presence of anyone unsympathetic.

The New Yorker

I'm in the flow".

The New York Times - Sports

'Freeze Flow' paused the solution of all governing equations of fluid flow, except temperature; while 'Boundary Freeze' froze temperatures at boundaries of the CFD model whilst solving all equations in the flow domain.

Building and Environment

Rivers in the flow.

Los Angeles Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "pause in the flow" to denote a deliberate or noticeable interruption, especially when discussing processes or conversations. It emphasizes a temporary cessation rather than a complete stop.

Common error

Avoid using "pause in the flow" when you intend to describe a permanent end or termination. This phrase specifically refers to a temporary break, not a final conclusion.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "pause in the flow" functions primarily as a noun phrase, often used to describe a temporary cessation or interruption within a continuous process or activity. As Ludwig AI suggests, it highlights a transient break rather than a permanent stop.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Science

30%

Wiki

15%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

5%

Social Media

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "pause in the flow" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase that describes a temporary interruption in a continuous process or activity. Ludwig AI confirms its validity, and while it's not exceedingly common, its presence across reputable sources like The New York Times and academic publications indicates its reliability. For alternatives, consider "brief interruption" or "temporary cessation" depending on the context. When using this phrase, ensure that you're indeed referring to a temporary break, not a complete stop.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

temporary cessation

Focuses on the temporary nature of the stop, emphasizing the halting of an activity.

brief interruption

Highlights the shortness of the disruption to the ongoing activity.

momentary suspension

Emphasizes a temporary holding back or deactivation of the flow.

transient break

Conveys a short-lived separation or discontinuity in the continuity.

fleeting halt

Suggests a quick and almost imperceptible stop in the progression.

interim standstill

Implies a temporary state of inactivity or immobility within the process.

passing lull

Describes a quiet or calm period that interrupts the intensity of the activity.

short hiatus

Suggests a brief and intentional break or gap in the sequence.

ephemeral pause

Highlights the short-lived or transient nature of the pause.

momentary abatement

Conveys a brief reduction in intensity or activity before resuming the flow.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "pause in the flow" in a sentence?

The phrase "pause in the flow" is best used to describe a temporary interruption or break in a continuous activity or process. For instance, "There was a noticeable pause in the flow of conversation when the CEO entered the room."

What are some alternatives to "pause in the flow"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "brief interruption", "temporary cessation", or "momentary suspension".

Is "pause in the flow" suitable for formal writing?

Yes, "pause in the flow" is appropriate for formal writing, especially when describing processes, discussions, or events where a temporary interruption occurs. Its clarity and descriptive nature make it suitable for professional contexts.

What distinguishes "pause in the flow" from a complete stop?

"Pause in the flow" specifically indicates a temporary halt, implying that the activity will resume. A complete stop, on the other hand, suggests a permanent end. For example, a "pause in the flow" of traffic is different from a complete road closure.