Stops: meaning, definitions and examples

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stops

 

[stɒps ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

traffic

A place designated for a vehicle to stop and pick up or drop off passengers.

Synonyms

halt, station.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
stops

As this word is repeated, it doesn’t offer a new context or example different from the first 'stops'.

  • The context and examples can be found in the first entry for 'stops'
station

Indicates a specific place where vehicles, especially trains, regularly stop for passengers to board or alight.

  • We need to arrive at the train station by 9 AM
  • The police station is right around the corner
halt

Implies a sudden or abrupt stop, often used in formal or emergency situations.

  • The project came to a sudden halt due to budget cuts
  • The police officer signaled for the car to halt

Examples of usage

  • Let's meet at the bus stop.
  • She waited at the train stop for her friend.
Context #2 | Verb

action

Cease movement or activity temporarily.

Synonyms

halt, pause.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
stops

Duplicate of the first entry, used in the same situations.

  • The bus stops at every major intersection.
  • She stops talking when she's thinking.
halt

Typically used in more formal or authoritative contexts to describe a sudden stop, often implying urgency or necessity. It can sound somewhat commanding.

  • The general ordered his troops to halt.
  • All trading was brought to a halt due to a system error.
pause

Used to indicate a temporary stop or break in action, with the intention of resuming later. It often implies a short duration.

  • She paused the movie to answer the phone.
  • He paused for a moment to collect his thoughts.

Examples of usage

  • The car stopped at the red light.
  • She stopped to tie her shoe.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word originates from the Old English 'stopian,' which means to block or close.
  • In Middle English, 'stop' referred to blocking a hole or pipe.
  • The modern usage evolved to include stopping both physical movement and progress in activities.

Psychology

  • The act of stopping often triggers a moment of reflection, allowing for better decision-making.
  • Research shows that taking breaks helps improve focus and productivity in tasks.
  • Stopping can create space for mindfulness, aiding in reducing stress and anxiety.

Transportation

  • 'Stops' are crucial in public transport, marking where buses and trains collect and drop off passengers.
  • Many cities have developed extensive 'stop' systems to manage urban traffic flow efficiently.
  • In aviation, a 'stop' can refer to a layover, where a plane lands before continuing to the final destination.

Literature

  • In poetry, stopping at certain points can create emphasis, leading readers to contemplate deeper meanings.
  • Writers often use the concept of stopping to illustrate characters' moments of realization or crisis.
  • Popular literature features various interpretations of the word, symbolizing major plot shifts or character development.

Pop Culture

  • Songs regularly use 'stop' to convey emotions, such as heartbreak or the need for a break in life.
  • 'Stop' is a common theme in movies, reflecting moments of decision-making or turning points in stories.
  • Catchy phrases like 'Stop right there!' have become staples in films and TV shows, highlighting critical moments.

Translations

Translations of the word "stops" in other languages:

🇵🇹 paradas

🇮🇳 रोकता है

🇩🇪 Haltestellen

🇮🇩 berhenti

🇺🇦 зупинки

🇵🇱 przystanki

🇯🇵 停止

🇫🇷 arrêts

🇪🇸 paradas

🇹🇷 duraklar

🇰🇷 정류장

🇸🇦 محطات

🇨🇿 zastávky

🇸🇰 zastávky

🇨🇳 停靠站

🇸🇮 postaje

🇮🇸 stopp

🇰🇿 тоқтау

🇬🇪 შეჩერებები

🇦🇿 dayanacaqlar

🇲🇽 paradas

Word Frequency Rank

At #5,326 in frequency, this word belongs to advanced vocabulary. It's less common than core vocabulary but important for sophisticated expression.