takes a pause

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "takes a pause" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe someone temporarily stopping or halting an action or speech for a moment. Example: "During the presentation, she takes a pause to gather her thoughts before continuing."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

8 human-written examples

She takes a pause.

The Guardian

King, leaning forward in his recliner, takes a pause, and a breath.

The New York Times - Magazine

Mr. Barnier has called for a final agreement before the European Parliament takes a pause next spring ahead of elections in May.

The New York Times

(Here the kommissar takes a pause, apparently expecting to hear the words of gratitude in response. Lyana would not say anything).

The Guardian

— On the last Sunday of July, this small town in the Sacramento River's delta takes a pause from the peak of the pear harvest season by holding its annual pear fair.

The New York Times

"I don't think the timing is right to buy now, but we will get some opportunities in the next several weeks if crude takes a pause here as expected," Hesler says.

Forbes

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

48 human-written examples

I took a pause from "2666" yesterday.

The New Yorker

"Chaotic," he said between cellphone rings, taking a pause.

The New York Times - Sports

Her advice: "Take a pause, wait a few weeks and see what happens.

The New York Times

If it responds by taking a pause for thought, it might even benefit.

The Economist

"The care of children can't take a pause for bureaucracy," he added.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "takes a pause" to create a sense of anticipation or emphasize a moment of reflection in your writing. It works well when describing someone's thought process or a significant moment in a narrative.

Common error

Avoid using "takes a pause" when a simple pause or a brief silence is sufficient. Overusing it can make your writing sound unnatural or overly dramatic. Opt for alternatives like "pauses" or "hesitates" in less significant moments.

Linguistic Context

Takes a pause functions primarily as a verbal phrase. It describes an action, specifically the act of temporarily stopping or interrupting an activity or speech. As noted by Ludwig AI, the phrase is usable and grammatically sound.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "takes a pause" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase that describes a temporary interruption in an action or speech. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is well-regarded and valid in English writing. Predominantly found in News & Media, it is best used to emphasize a moment of reflection or anticipation. When a simple pause will suffice, remember that overwriting can detract from writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

pauses briefly

Focuses on the act of pausing with an emphasis on its short duration. It is more direct and less idiomatic than "takes a pause".

hesitates momentarily

Emphasizes a brief hesitation, often suggesting uncertainty or contemplation before continuing.

interrupts briefly

Highlights a short disruption or break, often in speech or an activity.

breaks for a moment

Suggests a temporary cessation of activity, focusing on the break itself.

stops for a while

Indicates a longer interruption, potentially longer than a momentary pause.

takes a breather

Implies a pause to rest or recover, especially after exertion. It is more informal.

takes a break

General term for a temporary interruption, suitable for various contexts, however, it does not specify length of time.

suspends momentarily

Suggests a formal or deliberate interruption, often used in procedural contexts.

desists briefly

Emphasizes a temporary cessation of an action, typically in a formal setting.

takes a respite

Implies a pause for relief or rest from something difficult or demanding.

FAQs

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

You can use "takes a pause" to describe a brief interruption in speech or action, often to emphasize reflection or anticipation. For example: "During the presentation, she "takes a pause" to gather her thoughts."

What are some alternatives to "takes a pause"?

Alternatives to "takes a pause" include "pauses briefly", "hesitates momentarily", or "interrupts briefly". The best choice depends on the specific context and nuance you want to convey.

Is it better to say "takes a pause" or simply "pauses"?

While both are correct, "takes a pause" is more descriptive and idiomatic, emphasizing the action of pausing. "Pauses" is more direct. The choice depends on the desired level of emphasis and formality. In most contexts they can be interchangeable.

When is it appropriate to use "takes a pause" in writing?

"Takes a pause" is appropriate when you want to highlight a significant moment of reflection, hesitation, or anticipation. It can add depth to character descriptions and emphasize key moments in a narrative.