Stop short
phrasal verb
To suddenly stop moving or doing something.
He was about to say something but then he stopped short.
Often appears as...
- stop short of doing something
- car stopped short
phrasal verb
To almost but not completely do or say something.
He stopped short of calling her a liar.
Often appears as...
- stop short of accusing
- stop short of calling
phrasal verb
To suddenly stop moving or doing something.
He was about to say something but then he stopped short.
Often appears as...
- stop short of doing something
- car stopped short
phrasal verb
To almost but not completely do or say something.
He stopped short of calling her a liar.
Often appears as...
- stop short of accusing
- stop short of calling
Definition 1 of 2
Pro Tip 1/3Sudden Interruption
Indicates an abrupt action halt, often because of surprise or realization.
As he rushed towards the door, he stopped short when he saw the spider.
Pro Tip 2/3Physical Reaction
Often used to describe a physical stop to emphasize drama or significance.
The car stopped short just inches from the hydrant.
Pro Tip 3/3Not Literal
Can be used figuratively to describe a pause in speech or thought.
She stopped short, her mind racing with unanswered questions.
Pro Tip 1/3Sudden Interruption
Indicates an abrupt action halt, often because of surprise or realization.
As he rushed towards the door, he stopped short when he saw the spider.
Pro Tip 2/3Physical Reaction
Often used to describe a physical stop to emphasize drama or significance.
The car stopped short just inches from the hydrant.
Pro Tip 3/3Not Literal
Can be used figuratively to describe a pause in speech or thought.
She stopped short, her mind racing with unanswered questions.
Pro Tip 1/3Sudden Interruption
Indicates an abrupt action halt, often because of surprise or realization.
As he rushed towards the door, he stopped short when he saw the spider.
Pro Tip 2/3Physical Reaction
Often used to describe a physical stop to emphasize drama or significance.
The car stopped short just inches from the hydrant.
Pro Tip 3/3Not Literal
Can be used figuratively to describe a pause in speech or thought.
She stopped short, her mind racing with unanswered questions.
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