Dictionary-enhanced synonyms
Synonyms for “Pause” — 4 Other Ways to Say It
A short time when you stop doing something.
Meaning of Pause
A temporary stop or break.
How to Pronounce Pause
IPA: /pɔːz/ Stress: O
Rhymes with cause. One syllable: pawz.
4 Synonyms for Pause — Words Similar to Pause
Browse alternative words with their meaning, level, and a real example sentence so you pick the synonym that fits your context.
break
/breɪk/A short time when you stop working or doing something to rest.
Example: Let's grab a coffee break at 10 AM.
stop
/stɑp/When something stops, it no longer moves or continues doing what it was doing.
Example: Please stop talking and listen to me.
rest
/rɛst/Time to relax, recover, and regain energy after work or activity.
Example: I need rest after a long day of work.
gap
/ɡæp/An empty space between two things, or a break in something continuous.
Example: There is a gap between my two front teeth.
Smart Synonyms for Pause — When to Use Each
break
rest or relaxation between activities
gap
empty space between events in sequence
How to Use Pause and Its Synonyms in Sentences
- There was a pause in the conversation. A2
- Let's take a pause and rest. A2
- After a brief pause, she continued speaking. B1
Frequently Asked Questions About Synonyms of Pause
What is another word for "pause"?
Common synonyms for "pause" include: break, stop, rest, gap.
What can I say instead of "pause"?
Try one of these alternatives: break, stop, rest, gap. Pick the synonym whose register and meaning fits your sentence — see the cards above for definitions and examples.
Is "pause" formal or informal?
"pause" is generally used in neutral contexts.
When should I use "pause" instead of "break"?
Use "pause" when you want to keep the exact nuance shown in the meaning section above; switch to "break" when you need a different register, level, or shade of meaning. Compare the cards above to decide.