When combined, 暂 (temporary) + 停 (stop) literally creates the meaning “a temporary stop,” which perfectly captures the essence of “to pause.”
While 暂停 (zàntíng) is a straightforward, functional term, its application in formal contexts carries significant weight. In Western culture, “pausing” can sometimes feel informal. In a Chinese business or official setting, announcing a 暂停 is a very deliberate and strategic act. For example, to 暂停 (zàntíng) negotiations is not just “taking a break”; it's a formal signal to both sides that there is an issue that needs to be reconsidered before talks can resume. It's a cooling-off period that can be used to rethink strategy or wait for external conditions to change. This contrasts with simply “canceling” (取消 qǔxiāo) a project, which is final. 暂停 implies hope or intention for resumption. It maintains the possibility of continuing, which aligns with cultural values that often prefer to avoid direct confrontation or the finality of burning bridges. It allows all parties to save face (面子 miànzi) by creating space for a resolution rather than declaring an outright failure.
暂停 (zàntíng) is ubiquitous in modern China, appearing in both digital and physical spaces, and in contexts ranging from casual to highly formal.
This is the most common use for learners. It's the literal word on the pause button for videos, music players, and video games.
In the workplace, 暂停 is used to formally put meetings, projects, or operations on hold.
You will frequently see this term on public notices from the government or service providers.
The most critical nuance for learners is distinguishing 暂停 (zàntíng) from similar-sounding “stop” words.