Meaning & Definition of word "Pause"

Pause

/pɔːz/

noun:

  • 1. A temporary stop or break in speech or action.
    • Example: There was a pause in the conversation as everyone processed the news.
  • 2. A brief interruption in activity.
    • Example: After a long pause, he finally answered the question.

verb:

  • 1. To interrupt or stop something temporarily.
    • Example: She decided to pause the movie to grab some snacks.
  • 2. To take a brief break from speaking or doing something.
    • Example: He paused for a moment to gather his thoughts before continuing.

Etymology

Middle English paus, from Latin pausa, from Greek pausa.

Common Phrases and Expressions

take a pause:

to take a short break from an activity

pause for thought:

to take a moment to consider something

pause and reflect:

to stop and think about something carefully

Related Words

break:

a temporary interruption of work or activity.

interrupt:

to stop the continuous progress of an activity or process.

Slang Meanings of pause

Meaning: A moment to stop or think, often used in discussions.

Example Sentence: Let me pause for a second to think about that.

Meaning: To take a break in a conversation or game.

Example Sentence: We need to pause this debate for a moment.