suspension - Master This Word
Master this word with our 5-step learning method – Learn English in English
suspension Word Meanings
- the act of temporarily preventing something from continuing
- the state of being hung or supported in the air
- a method of driving a vehicle involving springs and shock absorbers.
suspension Example Sentences
Example sentences are the start of understanding. Don't rush to memorize. First feel how the word works in a sentence.
suspension Phonetic & Pronunciation
UK
/səˈspɛnʃən/
US
/səˈspɛnʃən/
suspension Word Etymology
suspend (Latin: suspendere = to hang up) + -ion (suffix indicating action or condition). Originated from Latin → Old French → English. Imagine a bridge that is suspended in the air, held up by cables, symbolizing something that is temporarily put on hold.
Note 1: These definitions and etymologies are not standard dictionary definitions, but extended explanations provided to help with memorization and understanding of the actual application of words. Through this background information, we strive to make words more vivid and easier to understand, and help you remember their meanings in real life.
Note 2: LexiTalk designs the learning flow around the linguistics principle of “Comprehensible Input.” When learners encounter material that is slightly above their level but still understandable from context, the brain naturally absorbs the language. That’s why we keep every word inside authentic contexts, using examples and associations to help you understand it and use it flexibly.
Read the FAQ explanation of Comprehensible InputEnglish Brain Route
I push off and feel the bike respond as the suspension moves with every bump. I shift my weight, pull the handlebars, and keep my pace as the road changes under me. On a rough stretch I notice how the system holds me up, how a pause in a plan can come when I least expect it. By the end I sense that this small push and hold, this adjustment under pressure, is what lets motion continue without breaking.
Real Context
Suspension is a noun with several related meanings. First, it denotes the act of temporarily preventing something from continuing, such as the suspension of a service, a rule, or a process, often while an investigation or decision is pending. Second, it refers to the state of being hung or supported in the air, as when a chandelier is suspended from a ceiling or a bridge is suspended by cables. Third, it is the name for a car’s suspension system, the set of springs, shock absorbers, and linkages that cushion the ride and keep the wheels in contact with the road. These senses share the core idea of blocking progress, supporting weight, or absorbing motion.
Usage Reminders
- Use suspension for official pauses; not 'pause' in every casual case. Distinguish from 'suspense' by spelling and context. When describing cars, prefer 'suspension system' or 'shock absorbers'. Collocate with 'suspension of' a service, rule, or process. Do not confuse with 'suspend' (verb) which means to pause temporarily but not the noun form. Remember common phrases: 'suspension bridge', 'suspension of disbelief'.
Common Misconceptions
- Suspension is the same as suspense; they are not interchangeable.
- All suspensions mean a full cancellation rather than a temporary pause.
- Suspension in cars means the car will not move; it only refers to brakes.
- The word ‘suspend’ is a noun; it’s actually a verb.
- People confuse suspension with suspension bridge or suspension of disbelief; context matters.
Thinking Differences
English tends to separate formal pauses (suspension) from casual delays; learners often confuse suspension with suspense or pause in everyday talk. Emphasize collocations like 'suspension of service' vs 'suspension of disbelief'.
Learning Tips
- Learn the three core senses and practice with sentence pairs.
- Remember common collocations: suspension of a service, suspension bridge, suspension system.
- Distinguish from suspend (verb) vs suspension (noun).
- Use real-world examples to memorize the feel of the noun.
- Think of suspension as blocking, supporting, or cushioning.
- Practice pronunciation: /səˈspɛnʃən/; stress on second syllable.
5-Step Learning Method - Learn English in English
Step 1: Meaning
What is the meaning of 'suspension'?
A.Achievement
B.Temporary stop
C.Attachment
D.Development
Step 2: Usage
Which sentence uses 'suspension' correctly?
A.The suspension of the committee's decision caused uproar.
B.There was a suspension of excitement in the air.
C.The suspension bridge spans the river.
D.She was wearing a suspension of pearls around her neck.
Step 3: Similar Words
What is a synonym for 'suspension'?
A.Continuation
B.Termination
C.Interruption
D.Resumption
Step 4: Opposite Words
What is an opposite (antonym) for 'suspension'?
A.Extension
B.Acceleration
C.Closure
D.Perseverance
Step 5: Mastery
In what real-life context would you find 'suspension'?
A.Cooking a gourmet meal
B.Repairing a flat tire
C.Serving a suspension from school
D.Attending a dance performance
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