B2verb2K

Suspend

UK /["/səˈspend/","/səˈspendz/","/səˈspendɪd/","/səˈspendɪŋ/"]/US /["/səˈspend/","/səˈspendz/","/səˈspendɪd/","/səˈspendɪŋ/"]/

Definition

to hang something from something else

In simple words: To temporarily stop something.

Examples

  • The school decided to suspend the student for three days due to his disruptive behavior.
  • They had to suspend the construction work because of the heavy rain.
  • The company chose to suspend its operations temporarily during the investigation.
  • You can suspend payments if you notify the bank in advance.
  • She wore earrings that seemed to suspend delicately from her ears.
  • The chandelier was suspended from the ceiling by a chain.

Usage notes

Use 'suspend' in formal contexts, like in meetings or legal situations. Avoid using it in casual conversations unless you're joking.

Grammar pattern

suspend + object

Memory hint

Think of a swing ‘suspend-ed’ in the air — it’s not moving yet.

Collocations

  • immediately
  • indefinitely
  • temporarily
  • agree to
  • decide to
  • vote to
  • the power to suspend something
  • immediately
  • indefinitely
  • temporarily
  • agree to
  • decide to
  • vote to
  • the power to suspend something
  • automatically
  • formally
  • indefinitely
  • threaten to
  • for
  • from
  • pending
  • be suspended on full pay
  • be suspended with pay
  • be suspended without pay

Synonyms

  • pause
  • interrupt
  • halt
  • defer
  • put on hold

Antonyms

  • continue
  • resume
  • proceed

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'suspense' — they are different terms.
  • Using 'suspend' without an object, as it typically needs one.
  • Mixing up the past tense form - 'suspended' instead of 'suspend' in the present.