Pause

Definition

Pause refers to a temporary stop in action or speech.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /pɔz/
• Respelling: PAWZ (with "PAWZ" as in "laws")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /pɔːz/
• Respelling: PAWZ (similar to American English, with "PAWZ" elongated as in "laws")

In both dialects, "pause" is pronounced with a single, stressed syllable. The pronunciation highlights the subtle differences in vowel length and quality between American and British English, emphasizing a rounder and more open "aw" sound.

Etymology

The word "pause" is derived from the Old French "pause," which is rooted in the Latin term "pausa." The Latin term comes from the Greek "pausis," which means "stopping" or "ceasing."

Derivatives

• Pauser
• Unpaused
• Pausing
• Repause
• Pauseless

Synonyms

• Halt
• Break
• Respite

Antonyms

• Continuation
• Flow
• Progress

Usage

The term "pause" is utilized to describe a momentary stop or interruption in various contexts, such as in conversations, performances, or actions. It can be either voluntary, like when someone chooses to pause before speaking, or involuntary, such as a pause caused by surprise.

Related Terms

• Interval
• Intermission
• Lull
• Hiatus
• Break

Detailed Definition

Noun

• A temporary stop or rest, especially in speech or action.
• Example: "After a slight pause, he continued his story."

• A control on an electronic device that allows one to stop the playback of audio or video.
• Example: "I pressed the pause button on the remote to answer the phone."

• A short period of silence.
• Example: "There was a long pause before anyone spoke up."

Verb

• To interrupt action or speech briefly.
• Example: "She paused momentarily to catch her breath."

• To stop an action or sound temporarily using a control on an electronic device.
• Example: "Can you pause the movie? I need to grab some popcorn."

• To hesitate or delay.
• Example: "She paused, unsure of how to proceed."