Pauses, or breaks, are intentional moments of silence or rest during activities, such as speaking, writing, or performing. They serve various purposes, including allowing time for reflection, emphasizing important points, or providing a moment for the audience to absorb information. In communication, pauses can enhance clarity and engagement. In music, pauses are known as rests, which indicate a temporary stop in sound. Similarly, in theater, actors use pauses to create tension or highlight emotions. Overall, pauses are essential tools in both verbal and non-verbal communication, contributing to the effectiveness of the message being conveyed.