suspension
suh-SPEN-shuhn
/səˈspɛnʃən/
The temporary prevention of something from continuing or being in force.
Implies an official or legal decision to stop something for a set period.
The story behind the word. Literally 'to hang under.' Think of a bridge hanging from cables—it is held up and prevented from moving forward or falling.
Word relationships
- adjournment: 'Adjournment' is specifically for meetings or court sessions; 'suspension' is broader.
- reinstatement: 'Reinstatement' is the act of putting something back into force after it was stopped.
Commonly confused with
- abeyance: 'Suspension' is the act of stopping; 'abeyance' is the state of being stopped.
Word family
- suspend (verb): To stop temporarily.
Collocations
- temporary suspension
- immediate suspension
- suspension of disbelief
Idioms & expressions
- suspension of disbelief
Example sentences
- "The player received a three-game suspension for his conduct during the match." A punishment in sports.
- "The judge ordered a suspension of the trial until new evidence could be reviewed." A legal pause.
Memory hook
Imagine a project 'hanging' in mid-air, not moving, until someone lets it down. Hanging in the balance.
When not to use
Not for a physical gap like a hole in a wall; use 'breach' or 'lacuna'.
Fun facts
- The 'suspension' of a car refers to the system of springs and shock absorbers that 'hangs' the body of the car above the wheels.
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