Pause Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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pause
[pɔːz ]
Definitions
during conversation
A temporary stop in action or speech.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| pause |
Use 'pause' when you temporarily stop a particular action or event, intending to resume shortly. It's often used in formal and informal settings.
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| break |
Use 'break' when taking a longer interruption from an activity for rest or relaxation. This can be used in both professional and casual settings.
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| stop |
Use 'stop' for a general and complete end to an activity or motion. It's a versatile and widely used term in both formal and informal contexts.
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| halt |
Use 'halt' when bringing an action or process to an abrupt or complete stop, often with a sense of urgency or finality. It can sound more formal or technical and sometimes conveys a negative nuance.
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Examples of usage
- There was a brief pause before he continued speaking.
- She hit the pause button on the remote control.
using electronic device
To stop the action of a device or process temporarily.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| pause |
Best used when temporarily stopping an action or event with the intention to resume it shortly. Often used in conversations or during activities like watching a movie.
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| interrupt |
Used when cutting into an action or event, particularly conversations or ongoing activities. It can have a negative connotation if done rudely.
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| halt |
Refers to stopping something immediately and completely. Often used in formal or urgent contexts, such as stopping a vehicle or a process.
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| stop |
A general term for bringing an action or event to an end. Can be used in various contexts, both formal and informal.
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Examples of usage
- Please pause the video so I can grab a snack.
- He paused the music to answer the phone.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Taking a pause can help reduce anxiety and stress, giving the mind a moment to relax.
- Studies show that brief breaks during study sessions can enhance concentration and retention of information.
- Mindfulness practices often include pauses to help individuals reconnect with their thoughts and surroundings.
Music
- In musical notation, a pause or 'fermata' indicates that the musician should hold a note longer, enhancing the emotional weight of the piece.
- Famous composers like Bach and Beethoven utilized pauses effectively to create dramatic tension in their music.
- In jazz, pauses can add a unique rhythm, allowing musicians to improvise and respond to the music dynamically.
Technology
- In video games, the pause function allows players to take breaks, strategize, or adjust settings without losing progress.
- Streaming services like Netflix allow users to pause content, giving control over viewing experiences.
- The concept of 'pause' in software often includes temporary halts in processes, crucial for system management.
Literature
- Many authors use pauses in writing to instill suspense, making readers anticipate what comes next.
- Poets often incorporate pauses in their verses through punctuation, impacting the poem's rhythm and emotional resonance.
- Famous literary works, such as Shakespeare's plays, include moments of pause that heighten dramatic moments between characters.
Origin of 'pause'
Main points about word origin
- The word 'pause' comes from the Latin word 'pausa', which means 'a break'.
- It entered the English language in the late 14th century, primarily through literature.
- In ancient theater, pauses were crucial for dramatic effect, allowing the audience to absorb the moment.
The word 'pause' originated from the Latin word 'pausa', meaning a temporary stop. It has been used in the English language since the late 15th century. The concept of pausing or taking a break has been fundamental in human communication and activities throughout history.