Definition, Meaning & Synonyms
awkward-pause
Noun
/ˈɔː.kwərd pɔːz/
Definition
A temporary stop in conversation that feels uncomfortable or clumsy, often due to uncertainty about what to say next.
Examples
- During the meeting, there was an awkward pause when no one knew how to respond to the unexpected question.
- After telling a joke that didn’t land, she was met with an awkward pause from the audience.
- His awkward pause made it clear that he was unsure about how to continue the conversation.
Meaning
An awkward pause occurs when there’s a break in communication, typically marked by silence that creates an uneasy atmosphere.
Synonyms
- uncomfortable silence
- hesitation
- stilted moment
- pause
