freeze up
- 01 B1 Intermediate
when a computer or app stops responding and you cannot move the mouse or type.
to experience a sudden suspension of operation in software or hardware, rendering the interface unresponsive to user input.
Simple“My laptop started to freeze up every time I tried to open the video editor.”
In context“The system tended to freeze up whenever the processor was tasked with rendering high-resolution graphics without sufficient cooling.”
UsageIntransitive in this sense; the computer is the subject.
- 02 B2 Upper Intermediate
to suddenly become unable to speak or act because you are very nervous or scared.
to become temporarily incapable of action or speech due to intense anxiety, stage fright, or shock.
Simple“I knew all the answers, but I started to freeze up as soon as the exam began.”
In context“Despite his extensive preparation, the young actor began to freeze up the moment he stepped into the spotlight and saw the expectant audience.”
Synonymspanicseize up - 03 B2 Upper Intermediate
to stop working because parts are stuck together, often due to ice or rust.
to become immobile or non-functional due to the formation of ice or the seizing of mechanical components.
Simple“The water pipes might freeze up if we don't leave the heating on during the winter.”
In context“Engineers warned that the external sensors could freeze up in sub-zero temperatures, potentially providing the cockpit with inaccurate altitude readings.”
- 04 C1 Advanced
to suddenly become very cold, quiet, or unfriendly in a conversation.
to adopt a cold, formal, or distant demeanour in a social interaction, typically as a defensive reaction.
Simple“She used to be very friendly, but she started to freeze up whenever I mentioned her old job.”
In context“The witness began to freeze up under cross-examination, providing only terse, one-word answers to the prosecutor's increasingly aggressive questions.”
contrast with 'lock up' for machines or 'panic' for people; 'freeze up' specifically emphasizes the lack of movement or the inability to continue a process.