# stoppage

/ˈstɑpɪdʒ/ (US) · /stˈɒpɪdʒ/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/stoppage
Updated: 2026-05-07

## Definition

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

For teachers: 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.

## Usage notes

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

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.