in abeyance

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العربية الفصحى
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/ɪn əˈbeɪ.əns/
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Temporarily stopped or not in use.
Practice using in abeyance in conversation until it feels natural

Examples

  • Their plans remained in abeyance after funding disappeared.
  • The project remains in abeyance.
  • Legal proceedings are in abeyance pending the inquiry.
  • The ban was held in abeyance for a month.
  • Is the merger still in abeyance?

Similar words

in suspense
suspended
on hold

Meanings

On hold for now

plans
formal
Not active at present, with the possibility that it will resume later.

Examples

  • The project remains in abeyance.
  • Legal proceedings are in abeyance pending the inquiry.
  • The ban was held in abeyance for a month.
  • Is the merger still in abeyance?
  • Their plans remained in abeyance after funding disappeared.

Similar words

on hold
suspended
in suspense

Etymology

In places something within a state. Abeyance came through Old French from a word for waiting or aspiring.

FAQ

What does in abeyance mean?

In abeyance means temporarily stopped or unused.

When is in abeyance used?

It is common with plans, rules, and legal proceedings.

How does in abeyance differ from paused?

On hold is everyday language; in abeyance sounds formal.

How is in abeyance used in a sentence?

The project remains in abeyance.

Is in abeyance formal?

Yes, it is a formal collocation.

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