the clock stopped

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "the clock stopped" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a situation where time has come to a halt, either literally or metaphorically, often indicating a moment of pause or reflection. Example: "As I stood there in shock, it felt like the clock stopped, and time no longer mattered."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sports

General

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

44 human-written examples

The clock stopped.

The Guardian - Sport

The clock stopped at 2.1 seconds remaining.

The New York Times - Sports

The clock stopped at 16.9 seconds.

The New York Times - Sports

The clock stopped and the Dolphins got the ball back.

The New York Times - Sports

When the clock stopped, what little colour left in Zinetula Bilyaletdinov's face disappeared.

Independent

For most tourist hotels in Iran, the clock stopped with the revolution in 1979.

The Economist

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

16 human-written examples

When the days run out, the clock stops for good.

The New York Times

The clock stops at 45 seconds: a comfortable beating of Bolt's 2003 record.

The Guardian - Sport

They're on the Packers 17.  Hold on...now the clock stops for a measurement.

The Guardian - Sport

When the clock stops on a life, all things emanating from it become precious, finite, and cordoned off for preservation.

The New Yorker

The person whose time is closest to the minute the clock stops, whether over or under, wins the money.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "the clock stopped" when you want to emphasize a sudden halt or cessation, whether literally referring to a timekeeping device or metaphorically to a process or situation.

Common error

Avoid using "the clock stopped" in overly casual conversation where simpler terms like "it ended" or "it paused" would be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "the clock stopped" primarily functions as a statement of fact, indicating that a timekeeping device has ceased to operate. As supported by Ludwig AI, it is also commonly used metaphorically to describe a pause in activity or progress. Examples include reports on sports events or describing a moment frozen in time.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Sports

30%

Wiki

5%

Less common in

Science

4%

Formal & Business

4%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "the clock stopped" is a versatile phrase used both literally and metaphorically to indicate a cessation. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usage. The phrase is commonly found in news, sports, and general contexts, with a neutral register. While generally suitable for various situations, avoid overusing it in very informal settings. Related phrases include "time stood still" and "time froze", offering alternative ways to express a halt in time or activity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

time stood still

This alternative implies a more dramatic and metaphorical halt in time, often associated with moments of great significance.

time froze

Similar to 'time stood still', but suggests an abrupt and unexpected cessation.

things came to a standstill

Suggests a complete cessation of movement or progress.

the timer ceased

Focuses on a specific timing device ending its function.

the meter expired

Used when referring to devices that measures time or quantity and it has achieved its limit.

the countdown ended

Implies a pre-determined period has reached its conclusion.

the engine cut out

Used when a device driven by an engine suddenly shuts down.

the deadline passed

Specifically relates to the ending of a set time for completion of something.

the process halted

Indicates a stop in an ongoing operation or series of actions.

activity ceased

A general term for the end of any activity.

FAQs

How can I use "the clock stopped" in a sentence?

You can use "the clock stopped" to describe a literal event, like "the clock stopped at 3:15", or metaphorically, to describe a pause or cessation in time or activity.

What's a more formal alternative to "the clock stopped"?

In a more formal context, you might use phrases such as "time ceased" or "the process was suspended" depending on the specific meaning you wish to convey.

What's the difference between "the clock stopped" and "time stood still"?

"The clock stopped" often refers to a specific, measurable event, whereas "time stood still" is usually a more dramatic, metaphorical expression indicating a moment of profound impact.

Can "the clock stopped" have a symbolic meaning?

Yes, "the clock stopped" can symbolize an end, a pause in life, or a moment frozen in time, often used in literature or narratives to create a sense of suspense or reflection.