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

Alas, borrowing Carpenter’s surface-level signatures doesn’t mean that his impeccable sense of suspense and rhythm are also transferred, or his sharp cultural commentary. — Katie Walsh, Los Angeles Times, 4 Sep. 2026

Lopez delivers a sly, perfectly self-aware performance, while the suspense is executed with effortless precision. — Declan Gallagher, Entertainment Weekly, 3 Sep. 2026

Jennifer McMahon is the best-selling author of 12 suspense novels, including The Winter People and Promise Not to Tell. — The Week Us, TheWeek, 2 Sep. 2026

With jurors expected to return early Wednesday, suspense is building as the crowd around the courthouse and millions online await the conclusion of a heartbreaking case that has captivated the nation. — Nicki Brown, CNN Money, 1 Sep. 2026