What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
suspend
Example
The construction work has been suspended due to the heavy rain. [suspend: verb]
Example
The chandelier was suspended from the ceiling with a strong chain. [suspended: past participle]
Example
The company decided to suspend the launch of their new product until next year. [suspend: verb]
postpone
Example
The concert has been postponed until next week due to the singer's illness. [postpone: verb]
Example
I need to postpone our meeting until tomorrow because I have an urgent matter to attend to. [postpone: verb]
Example
The professor decided to postpone the deadline for the research paper by one week. [postpone: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Postpone is more commonly used than suspend in everyday language, especially in the context of events or appointments. However, suspend is more commonly used in business or academic settings.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between suspend and postpone?
Suspend is generally more formal than postpone, which can be used in both formal and informal situations. However, both words can be used in various formality levels depending on the context and tone of the sentence.
