Translation guide
The English word 'pause' can refer to a temporary stop in action, speech, or a deliberate break. In Japanese, the most common equivalent is 一時停止 (ichiji teishi) for general pauses, but the best choice depends on context: whether it's a break in conversation, a video you've paused, or a moment of silence.
長い間があった。
There was a long pause.
To temporarily stop an ongoing action, process, or movement, with the intention to resume later.
The most direct and common translation for 'pause' as a temporary stop. Used for machines, videos, games, and formal contexts.
動画を一時停止してください。
Please pause the video.
ゲームを一時停止する。
I pause the game.
Implies interruption or suspension, often for a longer or more significant break. Used for meetings, projects, or broadcasts.
会議を中断しましょう。
Let's pause the meeting.
Often used for temporary suspension of services or operations, like a train line or a subscription. More formal.
運転を休止する。
Suspend operations (pause service).
A brief silence or hesitation while speaking, or a deliberate pause for effect.
Refers to a pause or interval in speech, music, or action. Essential for natural Japanese rhythm.
会話の間が大切です。
Pauses in conversation are important.
彼は間を置いて話し始めた。
He paused before starting to speak.
Means 'silence', often a longer or more awkward pause in conversation.
Literally 'cut one's words', meaning to pause briefly while speaking.
彼は言葉を切って考えた。
He paused to think.
Specifically referring to the action of pausing media or a device.
The most straightforward way to say 'press the pause button'.
一時停止ボタンを押してください。
Please press the pause button.
Loanword from English, commonly used in casual contexts for pausing media, especially among younger people.
ちょっとポーズして。
Pause it for a sec.
A pause from work or activity to rest.
General word for a break or rest, often used in work or study contexts.
10分休憩しましょう。
Let's take a 10-minute pause/break.
Literally 'one breath', meaning a short pause or breather.
The loanword ポーズ is casual and mainly used for media controls. In formal writing or speech, use 一時停止 or 中断.
間 (ま) is a neutral or positive pause, often intentional. 沈黙 (ちんもく) implies silence, which can be awkward or heavy. Use 間 for natural speech pauses.
気まずい沈黙が流れた。
An awkward pause/silence fell over them.
一息入れましょう。
Let's take a short pause.