停止

ていし

suspension, interruption, stoppage

JLPT N2

Character Breakdown

Usage of 停止

The verb 停止 (tíngzhǐ) means "to stop," "to halt," or "to cease." It is commonly used in formal or written contexts to indicate the cessation of an action, process, or operation. For example, vehicles, machines, or production lines can 停止.

Common Collocations

  • 停止运行 (stop operation): used for machines, vehicles, or systems.
  • 停止生产 (stop production): used in business or manufacturing contexts.
  • 停止 (stop service): used for services or utilities.

Nuances and Register

停止 is more formal and often used in official announcements or written language. In casual speech, people might use or 休息 depending on context. It implies a complete halt rather than a temporary pause.

Avoiding Confusion

Do not confuse 停止 with (zàntíng), which means "to pause" or "to suspend temporarily." 停止 implies stopping completely, often permanently or for an indefinite time.

Summary

Use 停止 when you want to express that something has ceased or halted, especially in formal or technical contexts. It is a versatile verb for stopping actions, operations, or services.

Example Sentences

The train stopped running because of an accident ahead.

Please stop driving at the red light to ensure safety.

The company decided to stop producing this product.