to a halt

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "to a halt" is correct and usable in written English.
This phrase is usually used to describe a process or activity coming to a sudden stop, and can be used in a variety of situations. For example, you could say "The fire quickly spread through the building, eventually coming to a halt in the lobby."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

Athens grinds to a halt.

The New York Times

Shuddering screech to a halt.

The New York Times

International cricket might come to a halt.

Independent

The machine could grind to a halt.

The New York Times

The "Celebration" project came to a halt.

The New Yorker

International aid has ground to a halt.

Independent

The Lakers simply ground to a halt.

The New York Times - Sports

Washington may grind to a halt.

Independent

University departments will grind to a halt.

The Economist

The momentum has come to a halt".

The New York Times

Again, the capital shuddered to a halt.

The Economist

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use the phrase "to a halt" to clearly indicate a sudden and complete stop of motion, activity, or progress. It is effective in both literal and figurative contexts.

Common error

Avoid using "to a halt" when describing a gradual slowing down. This phrase implies an abrupt stop, so use alternatives like "slowing down" or "approaching a stop" for actions that reduce speed over time.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "to a halt" functions primarily as an adverbial phrase modifying a verb. It describes the manner in which an action, typically involving movement or progress, comes to an abrupt stop. Ludwig confirms its usability in diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

72%

Encyclopedias

12%

Wiki

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Science

3%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "to a halt" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe an abrupt stop to an action or process. According to Ludwig, it's frequently found in News & Media. It serves to emphasize the sudden cessation of movement or progress. When writing, remember to use "to a halt" to convey an abrupt stop and consider more gradual alternatives when describing a slow reduction in speed. Avoid using it to refer to a slow action. The analyzed phrase is considered valid in the English language according to Ludwig.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

to a standstill

Indicates a complete cessation of movement or activity, emphasizing stability and lack of further progress.

to a stop

A more general term for ceasing movement or activity, without necessarily implying abruptness.

to a standstill

Similar to "to a standstill", but may suggest a more temporary or reversible cessation.

to a cessation

Emphasizes the termination of a process or activity, often in a formal or official context.

to a termination

Highlights the finality of ending an activity or process, often used when something is formally concluded.

to a conclusion

Focuses on reaching the end point of a process, argument, or endeavor.

to a finish

Suggests completing a task or race.

to an end

A more general way to express the termination of something.

to a deadlock

Implies a situation where progress is impossible, often in negotiations or discussions.

to a stalemate

Similar to deadlock, indicating a situation where neither side can advance or achieve a resolution.

FAQs

How can I use "to a halt" in a sentence?

Use "to a halt" to describe something stopping abruptly. For example, "The car screeched "to a halt"" or "Negotiations came "to a halt"".

What's the difference between "to a halt" and "to a stop"?

"To a halt" often implies a more sudden or forceful cessation than "to a stop". While both indicate the end of movement or activity, "to a halt" suggests a more abrupt finish.

Which is correct, "grind to a halt" or "ground to a halt"?

"Ground to a halt" is the correct past tense form. "Grind to a halt" is used in the present tense to describe the action of stopping.

What can I say instead of "to a halt"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "to a standstill", "to a stop", or "to a cessation".