Stop/halt somebody in their tracks

Pro Tip 1/3

Use when something has a powerful effect that causes a person to pause suddenly.

Her performance was so moving, it stopped everyone in their tracks.

Pro Tip 2/3

Often relates to a sudden emotional reaction such as shock, awe, or fear.

When the verdict was read, the silence that followed stopped us in our tracks.

Pro Tip 3/3

Best used in scenarios where the cause of stopping is unforeseen.

The deer leaping onto the path stopped the cyclist in his tracks.