Halt: meaning, definitions and examples

Used in formal or military contexts where an abrupt stop is required.

• The troops were ordered to halt
• The project came to a sudden halt due to lack of funds

General term for ending an action or movement; can be both temporary and permanent.

• Stop the car! He decided to stop working for the day

Appropriate in formal contexts or legal terms to indicate stopping something permanently.

• All hostilities will cease immediately
• The company decided to cease operations in the region

Used when a temporary stop or break is intended, often in conversations or actions.

• Let's pause the video for a moment
• She paused to gather her thoughts

Used to indicate complete immobility, often in a physical sense.

• Please stand still while I take your picture
• Traffic came to a standstill during the parade

Usually signifies a complete stop, often used in situations where something must stop abruptly or immediately. Can also imply a longer and more definitive stop.

• 'The police officer signaled the car to halt
• ' 'Production came to a halt due to the machinery failure
• '

Refers to a halt in a process or activity, often used in contexts like production, work, or sports. It can sometimes carry a negative connotation, implying an unwanted or unexpected delay.

• 'There was a stoppage in the assembly line caused by a technical fault
• ' 'The players demanded a stoppage of the match due to the adverse weather
• '

Indicates a short and often deliberate stop, usually with the intention to resume afterward. Commonly used in speech, music, or ongoing activities.

• 'Let's pause the meeting for a quick break
• ' 'She paused the video to answer the phone
• '

Refers to a temporary stop or break in continuity, often used in communication or activities to indicate a short and temporary disruption.

• 'Sorry for the interruption, but can I ask a question?' 'There was an interruption in the service due to technical issues
• '

Describes a situation where movement or activity ceases completely, often implying a static or frozen state. Can have a more formal or technical connotation.

• 'Traffic came to a standstill due to the accident
• ' 'Negotiations reached a standstill with no agreement in sight
• '