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Metrical pause

Sound
Pronunciation

Understanding ARPABET Pronunciation

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The pronunciation guide uses the ARPABET phonetic system—the same system used in speech recognition and text-to-speech applications.

Vowel Examples:
AE1 = cat, bat
EH1 = bed, head
IY1 = see, me
OW1 = go, boat
UW1 = boot, do
Stress Numbers:
0 = no stress (unstressed)
1 = primary stress (loud)
2 = secondary stress (medium)
Example:
AH0 TH IY1 N AH0
= a-THEE-na (Athena)

The stressed syllable (marked with 1) is pronounced louder and clearer than others.

Quick Definition

A silence or break within a line that aligns with metrical expectations rather than syntax

Detailed Definition
A metrical pause (or caesura) is a deliberate break within a poetic line, marked by punctuation, breath, or natural speech rhythm, that creates rhythmic tension, emphasizes key words, or signals emotional shifts. In classical meter, caesurae often occur mid-foot; in free verse, they replace meter as structural anchors. Strategic use of pauses can mimic hesitation, awe, or interruption, making the line feel more human and less mechanical.
Example
Example in poetry:
Caesura in “Stop—listen—to the wind”; Mid-line pause marked by comma: “She ran, then fell”; Feminine ending followed by silence: “The stars above...”; Rest after strong beat: “Heart. Beat.”; Pause implied by ellipsis: “I loved you... once”
Additional Notes
A metrical pause (caesura) is a mid-line break marked by punctuation or breath, creating rhythmic tension. Use to emphasize words, mimic speech, or signal emotional shifts. In free verse, pauses replace meter as structural anchors.
Also Known As
Rhythm break rhythmic break
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