short pause

USAGE SUMMARY

'short pause' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It can be used to indicate that a short pause should occur while speaking. For example, "As I mentioned before, I'll now go over the main points of the presentation; [short pause] first,..."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Encyclopedias

Formal & Business

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

(Short pause).

The New York Times

There is a short pause.

The Guardian

("Now there will be a short pause").

The New York Times - Arts

A short pause is a hiatu?

The Guardian

After a short pause, he said: "I'm used to winning.

The New York Times - Sports

After a short pause, Steinbrenner replied, "He was all right".

The New York Times

The Peace of Amiens (1802) marked a short pause in the Napoleonic Wars.

Encyclopedia Britannica

Then, after a short pause, he adds, "But my wife won't give me a divorce".

The New York Times

The first heart sound is followed after a short pause by the second.

Encyclopedia Britannica

However, after a short pause Gitelman called for dummy's diamond king!

The New York Times

"Someone tweeted, 'Hey, I'm hanging out onstage with the Lumineers!' " There is a short pause.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When dictating instructions or narrating a process, include "short pause" to help listeners process the information more effectively.

Common error

Avoid using "short pause" excessively, as it can become repetitive and lose its impact. Vary your language with synonyms or rephrase sentences to create natural breaks without explicitly stating them.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "short pause" functions primarily as a descriptive noun phrase. It identifies and characterizes a break or cessation, specifying its duration as brief. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage across various contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Science

25%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

5%

Formal & Business

10%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "short pause" is a grammatically sound and versatile phrase that is commonly used across a variety of contexts. As Ludwig AI confirms, its primary function is to denote a brief interruption or cessation, often for emphasis or processing. While its register is generally neutral, its frequent appearance in news, media, and scientific sources suggests its widespread applicability. When using "short pause", remember to consider its impact and avoid overuse, opting for synonyms like "brief silence" or "momentary hesitation" when appropriate. By understanding these nuances, you can effectively incorporate "short pause" into your writing and speech.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

brief silence

Focuses on the auditory aspect of the pause, emphasizing the absence of sound.

momentary hesitation

Highlights the indecision or uncertainty implied by the pause.

slight interruption

Emphasizes the breaking of continuity rather than the silence itself.

fleeting break

Suggests a very short and transient interval.

quick lull

Implies a temporary period of calm or quiet.

split-second gap

Focuses on the brevity of the interval, using a precise measurement of time.

small break

A more generic alternative, focusing on the interruption.

short interval

Emphasizes the measured time frame rather than the silence.

brief interlude

Suggests a more formal or artistic pause, often within a performance.

momentary cessation

Uses more formal language to describe the stopping of an action or sound.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "short pause" in a presentation?

In presentations, strategically insert a "short pause" before key points to build anticipation and allow your audience time to process information. This can emphasize the importance of what you're about to say.

What are some alternatives to using the phrase "short pause"?

You can use alternatives like "brief silence", "momentary hesitation", or "slight interruption" depending on the specific context.

Is it grammatically correct to say "a short pause" or simply "short pause"?

Both forms are grammatically correct. "A short pause" is more common when referring to a specific instance, while "short pause" can be used more generally.

Can "short pause" be used in formal writing?

Yes, "short pause" is suitable for formal writing. Its clarity and directness make it appropriate for various professional and academic contexts, as demonstrated by its use in sources like The New York Times and scientific journals.