English Reference

Word

stoppage

Phoneticsstop·page, stress on the first syllable

US/ˈstɑpɪdʒ/

UK/stˈɒpɪdʒ/

Countable noun

Definition

n. a time when work or an activity stops, often because of a problem or a disagreement.

n. a cessation of activity or work, typically resulting from industrial action, a mechanical failure, or a sporting interruption.

Examples

“The factory faced a sudden stoppage due to a power cut.”

“The referee added four minutes of extra time to account for the stoppage caused by the player's injury.”

“Union leaders warned that any further breakdown in negotiations would lead to a series of rolling stoppages across the national rail network.”

Examples

simple

“The factory faced a sudden stoppage due to a power cut.”

contextual

“The referee added four minutes of extra time to account for the stoppage caused by the player's injury.”

complex

“Union leaders warned that any further breakdown in negotiations would lead to a series of rolling stoppages across the national rail network.”

Collocations

Common phrases and expressions where native English speakers use the word “stoppage” in context.

01. stoppage time

Usage

Often used in industrial or sporting contexts to describe a temporary pause rather than a permanent end.

Real-World Examples

“Olly Sanderson bundled home in stoppage time to snatch Stevenage a point in a 1-1 draw at Burton .”
The Guardian 15 Aug 2026
“However, she was sent off with her second yellow card in stoppage time for stopping a goalward shot with her arm.”
Al Jazeera 14 Aug 2026

Word family

NOUN

stoppage(B2)

This entry

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
Frequent
Level
B2 · Upper Intermediate
Updated

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English Reference