pause
noun
a temporary stop or rest, especially in speech or action.
had paused
-
past perfectof pause.past perfect
Used to express a completed action that took place before another specific past action occurred.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
The moves comes after President Donald Trump told Axios on Monday that he had paused strikes to give time for negotiations with Tehran.
From MarketWatch ● Jul. 28, 2026
He referenced a report from Reuters that the White House had paused the release of a draft bulletin earlier this month.
From Salon ● Mar. 16, 2026
Gonzalez Henrichsen said he quickly received an avalanche of calls from people who wanted to restart manufacturing projects in Mexico that they had paused because of incoming tariffs.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Dec. 27, 2025
Isiah, who had paused attending Mass during the raids, said church is really the only place he feels safe anymore.
From Los Angeles Times ● Jul. 11, 2025
Mia’s photograph had been last, and when the class gathered before it, Pauline had paused for a moment, as if taken aback.
From "Little Fires Everywhere" by Celeste Ng
