suspense

[səˈspɛns]

suspense Definition

  • 1a feeling of excitement or anxiety when you do not know what will happen next in a book, film, or situation
  • 2the state of being uncertain or undecided

Using suspense: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "suspense" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

  • Example

    The suspense in the movie kept me on the edge of my seat.

  • Example

    The suspense of the election results was nerve-wracking.

  • Example

    The author builds suspense throughout the novel.

suspense Synonyms and Antonyms

Antonyms for suspense

Phrases with suspense

  • in a state of uncertainty or indecision

    Example

    The fate of the project was left in suspense until the final decision was made.

  • to keep someone waiting in a state of uncertainty or indecision

    Example

    The teacher held the students in suspense before announcing the winner of the competition.

  • an account used to temporarily hold transactions that require further investigation or clarification

    Example

    The accounting department created a suspense account to hold the unexplained transactions.

Origins of suspense

from Old French 'suspense', from Latin 'suspendere', meaning 'to hang up'

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Summary: suspense in Brief

The term 'suspense' [səˈspɛns] refers to the feeling of excitement or anxiety when the outcome of a situation is uncertain. It can be found in books, films, and real-life situations, such as elections. The phrase 'in suspense' means to be in a state of uncertainty or indecision. 'Suspense' can also refer to an account used to temporarily hold transactions that require further investigation or clarification.

How do native speakers use this expression?