Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
give-someone-pause
idiom
/gɪv ˈsʌmˌwʌn pɔz/
Definition
To create a moment of hesitation or reflection for someone before they continue with an action or decision.
Examples
- His unexpected question really gave me pause.
- The shocking news gave her pause before making her statement.
- Before he accepted the offer, it gave him pause to consider the implications.
Meaning
It refers to causing someone to stop and think about something rather than proceeding immediately.
Synonyms
- make someone think
- give someone second thoughts
- cause hesitation