halt
HAWLT
/hɔːlt/
To bring or come to an abrupt stop.
Implies a sudden and often forced stop, rather than a gradual slowing down.
The story behind the word. The word comes from the German 'halt,' which was a command used to stop horses or soldiers. It suggests a physical bracing against further movement.
Word relationships
- stop: 'Stop' is the general term; 'halt' is more formal and implies a sudden command or physical blockage.
- proceed: 'Proceed' means to continue moving forward after a stop.
Commonly confused with
- pause: A pause is temporary and usually voluntary; a halt is often involuntary and more definitive.
Word family
- halting (adjective): Hesitant or stopping frequently.
Collocations
- grinding halt
- sudden halt
- call a halt to
Idioms & expressions
- bring something to a halt
Example sentences
- "The officer ordered the column to halt immediately at the edge of the clearing." A sudden command in a military setting.
- "Production came to a grinding halt when the main conveyor belt snapped." Describing the end of a process.
Memory hook
Think of a 'HALT' sign being held up by a giant hand; it stops you right in your tracks. Halt! Who goes there?
When not to use
Avoid using for a permanent end; use 'terminate' or 'cease' for that.
Fun facts
- In the military, 'Halt!' is one of the few commands that must be obeyed instantly without question.
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