Pauzes

Pauzes are periods of temporary cessation of activity or speech. The term is used in Dutch and other languages to describe a stoppage within a sequence of actions, conversations, or performances. Etymologically, pauze comes from French pause, itself from Latin pausa and Greek pausis, reflecting a long history of marking silence in communication and art.

In music, a pauze (pause) is a rest symbol indicating silence for a specified duration, affecting timing and phrasing. Different rest values correspond to note lengths, and their placement helps shape musical structure and expression. In speech, a pause marks a boundary between ideas, provides a moment for breath, or adds emphasis; pauses can be unfilled or filled with sounds or words.

In film, theater, and narrative writing, pauses contribute pacing and dramatic effect, often achieved through editing, timing, or actor delivery. In computing and technology, a pause refers to a deliberate halt in program execution or a delay in processing, sometimes implemented as a sleep or wait instruction. In sports and daily life, breaks such as halftime, recess, or intermissions serve for rest, recovery, or preparation.

Durations of pauses vary widely. Micro-pauses in casual conversation last fractions of a second, while longer pauses in speech or performance can shape meaning and reception. Psychological and physiological studies suggest that deliberate breaks can improve attention, reduce cognitive load, and support information processing.

See also: rest, break, interval, timing.