Paused Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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paused
[pɔːzd ]
Definition
temporary stop
To pause means to temporarily stop an action or process, often to allow for a brief moment of reflection or a break. In many contexts, it signifies the need to interrupt an activity to either gather one's thoughts or wait for something else to occur. Pausing can be applied to various activities, including speaking, playing music, or running a video. This action can provide clarity, allow for decision-making, or simply create space for a moment of silence.
Synonyms
break, halt, intermission, stop.
Examples of usage
- He paused before answering the difficult question.
- She pressed the pause button to take a break from the movie.
- The music paused for a few moments during the performance.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Psychology
- Pausing can help reduce stress, allowing the brain to process information more effectively.
- Studies show that taking short breaks enhances focus and creativity, leading to better performance in tasks.
- Mindful pauses during conversations can improve interpersonal communication by allowing for reflection.
Technology
- In digital media, the pause function allows users to control playback, enhancing user experience by giving them time to digest content.
- Streaming platforms popularized the 'pause' feature, allowing viewers to watch on their own terms.
- Gaming also incorporates pause functions, enabling players to take breaks without losing progress.
Literature
- Authors often use pauses in writing, indicated by punctuation, to create suspense or emphasize a point.
- In poetry, a pause can enhance the rhythm, allowing readers to absorb the emotions expressed.
- Famous literary works sometimes feature characters who 'pause' to reflect, underscoring their inner conflicts.
Pop Culture
- In popular music, pauses can create dramatic effects, often making a line more impactful.
- Many iconic movie scenes incorporate pauses for comedic effect, allowing reactions to resonate with the audience.
- The phrase 'let's pause for a moment' has become a common expression in various media formats, signaling a need for reflection.
Origin of 'paused'
Main points about word origin
- The word originates from the Greek word 'pausis,' which means 'a stopping' or 'rest.'
- It appeared in English around the late Middle Ages, initially referring to a stop in music or performance.
- In Middle English, 'pause' was often spelled as 'paus.'
The word 'pause' comes from the Middle English 'pausen', which is derived from the Latin 'pausare', meaning 'to stop, cease, or rest'. The root of 'pausare' can be traced back to the Greek 'pausis', meaning 'a stopping, a cessation'. Over time, the term has evolved to encompass various forms of temporary cessation in numerous activities, especially in relation to music, speech, and physical movement. The shift in usage reflects the growing need for breaks and moments of stillness in a rapidly-paced world. The democratization of multimedia technology has further popularized the concept of pausing in everyday life, highlighting its importance in communication and entertainment. Today, 'pause' is often utilized in both literal and metaphorical contexts, from taking a breath while speaking to taking a pause for thoughtful consideration.
Word Frequency Rank
At #5,631 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.
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- 5628 sanitary
- 5629 preferences
- 5630 correlated
- 5631 paused
- 5632 buffer
- 5633 prose
- 5634 visitor
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