English Reference
Noun

stoppage

n. countable
B2 Upper Intermediate US /ˈstɑpɪdʒ/ UK /stˈɒpɪdʒ/ stop·page

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.


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.

Usage

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

Usage stoppage time

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
This entry
Level B2 · Upper Intermediate
Frequency Frequent
Updated