Suspense

Definitions

1. The condition of being suspended; cessation for a time.
   uncountable, usually
2. the pleasurable emotion of anticipation and excitement regarding the outcome or climax of a book, film etc.
   uncountable, usually
3. The unpleasant emotion of anxiety or apprehension in an uncertain situation.
   uncountable, usually
4. A temporary cessation of one's right; suspension, as when the rent or other profits of land cease by unity of possession of land and rent.
   uncountable, usually
5. A deadline.
   US, uncountable, usually

Equivalents

Examples

“For thee the Fates, severely kind, ordain / A cool suspense from pleasure and from pain; / Thy life a long dead calm of fix'd repose; / No pulse that riots, and no blood that glows.”

“Ten days the prophet in suspense remain'd.”

“I believe⟳ that, to the young, suspense is the most intolerable suffering. Active misery always brings with it its own⟳ power of endurance.”

“She sent us that assignment with a suspense of noon tomorrow.”

CEFR level