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

The Internet has unintentionally killed the suspense for nearly everything, up to and including concerts. — Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 30 June 2026

One of the first films of its kind, this lesbian gangster heist thriller delivers suspense and humor. — Liam Hess, Vogue, 28 June 2026

With a place in the World Cup’s knockout round already secured as group winners, the only suspense hinged on whether star Christian Pulisic would return from a calf injury suffered in the opening game. — Andrew Greif, NBC news, 26 June 2026

The result was one of the director’s greatest films, an espionage thriller and romance that incorporated his most personal concerns while still delivering the goods as a mainstream suspense picture. — Jim Hemphill, IndieWire, 26 June 2026