Synonyms of suspense

suspense

noun

sə-ˈspen(t)s 

as in suspension

a state of temporary inactivity

the lawsuit is in suspense until the court makes a decision concerning a related lawsuit

Synonyms & Similar Words

• suspension
• abeyance
• coma
• moratorium
• cold storage
• latency
• suspended animation
• inertia
• quiescence
• recession
• dormancy
• inaction
• rest
• doldrums
• deep freeze
• holding pattern
• standstill
• recess
• inertness
• motionlessness
• impasse
• sleep
• hypnosis
• slumber
• hibernation
• remission
• torpor
• downtime
• repose
• layoff
• idleness

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• continuation
• continuance
• renewal
• resuscitation
• resumption
• recommencement

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of suspense

In Davidson, the only suspense is which of six candidates will be the odd one out. —Nora O'Neill, Charlotte Observer, 15 Oct. 2025

This time around, while Chambers remains turned away, Teasdale crouches with an unsettling smile and long fingernails, conjuring a skin-crawling suspense. —Sophie Williams, Billboard, 10 Oct. 2025

Ron’s crusade against corporate shadiness (and shoddiness) never generates much suspense. —Judy Berman, Time, 9 Oct. 2025

Though the Russian Federation’s ongoing international ban will presumably deny all-time NHL goals leader Alex Ovechkin a last chance to win an elusive gold medal, the action in Italy next February should not lack suspense. —Rob Rossi, New York Times, 7 Oct. 2025