small pause

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "small pause" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a brief interruption or break in speech or action. Example: "After a small pause, she continued her explanation, allowing everyone to absorb the information."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

21 human-written examples

Small pause.

The Guardian

There was a small pause.

The New Yorker

There's a small pause.

The Guardian

There was another small pause.

The New Yorker

"I'm not a real actor, you know". Small pause.

The Guardian

We're merely taking a small pause in the conversation.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

39 human-written examples

Small paused when asked if they had reached a verdict.

The Guardian

There is a jagged, staccato quality, small pauses preceding rushes, reminiscent of a jazz improviser picking his way through a piece's creation.

Independent

I take small pauses to glimpse different moments of the sunrise.

University of Chicago

He will often carry a book throughout the day, taking advantage of small pauses in action to push through another few pages when he can.

Vice

On the other hand, Peña et al. [11] suggested that the introduction of subtle acoustic cues in the stream, such as small pauses between words, trigger the mechanism responsible for generalization of structural information.

Plosone

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "small pause" to indicate a brief, noticeable interruption in speech or action, often used for dramatic effect or to allow for reflection. For instance, in dialogue, it can signal a character's thoughtfulness or hesitation.

Common error

Avoid using "small pause" interchangeably with punctuation marks like periods or commas. A "small pause" is a deliberate break that might not be grammatically necessary but adds nuance to the text, whereas punctuation serves grammatical structure.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "small pause" functions as a noun phrase, typically used as a subject complement or an adverbial modifier. It describes a brief interruption, commonly in speech or action. Ludwig AI indicates the phrase is correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Science

30%

Wiki

20%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "small pause" is a grammatically sound and commonly used expression to denote a brief interruption in speech or action. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and usability across a range of writing styles. While not overly frequent, it serves as a valuable tool for adding nuance and emphasis. Key alternatives include "brief pause" and "short break". When using "small pause", be mindful of its deliberate nature, distinguishing it from mere grammatical pauses indicated by punctuation. Its adaptability makes it suitable for diverse contexts, but primarily within news, scientific writing and general contexts. It's important to avoid confusing it with a complete stop, which might alter the intended meaning of your text.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

Brief pause

This alternative uses a different adjective to describe the length of the pause, emphasizing its shortness.

Short break

This phrase substitutes "pause" with "break", indicating a temporary cessation.

Momentary hesitation

This option highlights the hesitating aspect of the pause, focusing on the uncertainty.

Slight delay

This version emphasizes the aspect of time, indicating a minimal postponement.

Quick respite

This phrase suggests a brief period of rest or relief from activity.

Fleeting silence

This alternative emphasizes the absence of sound during the pause.

Tiny interruption

This option focuses on the disruptive nature of the pause, albeit in a minor way.

Marginal gap

This phrase utilizes a less common term for pause, indicating a slim temporal distance.

Brief lull

This suggests a temporary period of calm or quiet, similar to a pause.

Minor suspension

This alternative implies a temporary stopping of an action or process.

FAQs

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

You can use "small pause" to indicate a brief break in speech or action. For example, "After a "small pause", she continued her explanation."

What can I say instead of "small pause"?

You can use alternatives like "brief pause", "short break", or "momentary hesitation" depending on the context.

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

Yes, "small pause" is acceptable in formal writing, especially when describing a deliberate and meaningful interruption. However, consider alternatives like "slight delay" if a more understated tone is desired.

What's the difference between "small pause" and "long pause"?

A ""small pause"" indicates a brief interruption, while a "long pause" suggests a more extended period of silence or inaction, often implying deeper thought or greater hesitation.