to pause
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to pause
To stop an activity or movement for a brief moment, often in order to think, reflect, or take a break.
Lass uns kurz innehalten und überlegen, ob das wirklich die beste Lösung ist.
Let's pause briefly and consider whether this is really the best solution.
'Innehalten' (to pause) is a separable verb with the prefix 'inne-'. In a main clause, the prefix goes at the end. In subordinate clauses and in the infinitive with 'zu', the verb stays together.
Der Redner hielt kurz inne, um einen Schluck Wasser zu trinken.
The speaker paused briefly to take a sip of water.
'Innehalten' (to pause) is a rather elevated and formal word. It is often used in literary, poetic, or solemn contexts to describe a deliberate, reflective pause.
In der Hektik des Alltags vergessen wir oft, einfach mal innezuhalten.
In the hustle and bustle of everyday life, we often forget to simply pause for a moment.
The verb 'innehalten' (to pause) is very often used without an object. It is frequently followed by a conjunction such as 'und' (and) or 'um zu' (in order to), which describes the reason for the pause or the action that follows.
Sie hielt inne und lauschte auf das seltsame Geräusch.
She paused and listened for the strange noise.
to stop
'aufhören' and 'innehalten' can both mean that you do not continue an activity. The difference lies in the duration and the feeling. 'aufhören' can be final or mean a longer interruption. 'innehalten' usually means simply: to stop briefly, often in order to think, look, or consciously take in a moment. Learners may confuse the words because both express stopping. As a guide: someone who 'aufhört' may not continue; someone who 'innehält' often continues right afterward.
Vor der Antwort hält Sofia kurz inne und denkt nach.
Before answering, Sofia pauses briefly and thinks.
Heute höre ich früher mit der Arbeit auf.
Today I'm stopping work earlier.