Word
halting
Phoneticshalt·ing, stress on the first syllable
US/ˈhɔɫtɪŋ/
UK/hˈɒltɪŋ/
Definition
adj. stopping and starting many times because you are nervous or not sure what to do. You use this to describe someone's speech or movement when it is not smooth.
adj. characterised by frequent pauses, hesitations, or interruptions. Often describes speech or physical movement that lacks fluency or steady progress.
Examples
“He spoke in a halting voice because he was nervous.”
“The peace talks made halting progress as both sides struggled to agree on the first few points of the treaty.”
“Her halting explanation suggested she was either deeply uncomfortable with the topic or was carefully choosing her words to avoid revealing too much information to the investigators.”
Examples
simple
“He spoke in a halting voice because he was nervous.”
contextual
“The peace talks made halting progress as both sides struggled to agree on the first few points of the treaty.”
complex
“Her halting explanation suggested she was either deeply uncomfortable with the topic or was carefully choosing her words to avoid revealing too much information to the investigators.”
Usage
Typically used attributively before a noun like 'speech', 'progress', or 'steps'.
Real-World Examples
“The couple's business activities eventually led to her halting her royal duties.” “It risks halting learning before it can take flight.” - Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Occasional
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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