pregnant pause

USAGE SUMMARY

"pregnant pause" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is usually used to describe a pause in conversation that is so long or so filled with potential meaning, that it suggests something may be said or some action may occur. For example, "The room fell silent as he paused, a pregnant pause filled with anticipation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Arts

Music

Sports

Books

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

55 human-written examples

Pregnant pause.

The New York Times - Sports

But Ms. Weare overdoes the pregnant pause.

The New York Times - Arts

An ironically pregnant pause.

The New York Times - Magazine

Another pregnant pause.

The Guardian

There is a pregnant pause.

The Guardian - Music

America's and the world's pregnant pause on cloning has lasted long enough.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

5 human-written examples

Pregnant pauses abounded.

The New York Times - Arts

Embarrassed, pregnant pauses contrasted with guilty, slightly worried laughs.

The Guardian

Perhaps it's less challenging to think about Hilary Benn's inflections and pregnant pauses?

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The tremulous warble replete with pregnant pauses is his default vocal setting.

The Guardian - Music

You've been warned, though: expect a few pregnant pauses in the autumn.

The Guardian - Tech

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Consider the context and ensure the pause genuinely adds to the meaning or suspense. If the pause feels forced or unnecessary, it's better to omit it.

Common error

Avoid using "pregnant pause" when a simple comma or period would suffice. The phrase implies a significant, meaningful silence, not just a brief pause for breath or grammatical correctness.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "pregnant pause" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as a subject or object in a sentence. It describes a specific type of pause that is filled with potential meaning or anticipation. Examples from Ludwig demonstrate its use in describing moments of heightened tension or significance in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Arts

20%

Music

10%

Less common in

Sports

8%

Books

7%

Formal & Business

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "pregnant pause" is a noun phrase that effectively describes a pause filled with potential meaning and anticipation. Ludwig AI confirms its correct grammatical status and frequent usage, particularly in News & Media, Arts, and Music contexts. While similar phrases like "meaningful silence" exist, "pregnant pause" uniquely captures the sense of impending significance. When using this phrase, consider the context to maximize its impact, avoiding overuse to maintain its dramatic effect. Remember, it is more than just a pause; it's a moment brimming with unspoken possibilities.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

pregnant silence

Similar to the original phrase, but uses a different noun to convey the same sense of anticipation.

meaningful silence

Emphasizes the significance of the silence itself, rather than the expectation of what might follow.

loaded pause

Highlights the emotional weight or potential consequences associated with the pause.

significant silence

Focuses on the importance and impact of the silence in the given context.

expectant silence

Stresses the anticipation and expectation surrounding the silence.

telling pause

Suggests that the pause reveals something important or insightful.

tense silence

Highlights the tension and unease associated with the silence.

momentary hush

Highlights the brief and temporary nature of the silence, often in a dramatic context.

deliberate silence

Emphasizes the intentional nature of the pause, suggesting it's carefully planned.

dramatic pause

Used to create suspense or heighten the emotional impact of a situation.

FAQs

How can I use "pregnant pause" in a sentence?

Use "pregnant pause" to describe a meaningful silence that suggests anticipation or unspoken emotions. For example, "After his shocking announcement, a "pregnant pause" filled the room before anyone dared to speak".

What are some alternatives to "pregnant pause"?

Alternatives to "pregnant pause" include "meaningful silence", "loaded pause", or "significant silence". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to use "pregnant pause" in formal writing?

Yes, "pregnant pause" is acceptable in formal writing when used appropriately to create emphasis or convey unspoken meaning. However, ensure it aligns with the overall tone and style of the piece.

What's the difference between "pregnant pause" and "dramatic pause"?

"Pregnant pause" suggests anticipation and unspoken meaning, while "dramatic pause" is primarily used to create suspense or heighten emotional impact. The former implies more potential than the latter.