Synonyms for

Suspense

Verb / sʌˈspens / Another word for suspense — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

a state or feeling of excited or anxious uncertainty about what may happen

Synonyms & similar words

tension drama anticipation uncertainty mystery expectation apprehension anxiety edginess nervousness unease fear dread foreboding worry concern uneasiness disquiet restlessness curiosity

Synonyms by register

Formal

uncertainty apprehension anxiety tension

Informal

cliffhanger what's gonna happen edge-of-your-seat

Literary

trepidation expectancy anticipation

Antonyms

calmness certainty calm peace assurance confidence resolution

Common collocations

  • building suspense
  • sense of suspense
  • heighten the suspense
  • maintain suspense
  • suspenseful moment
  • suspense thriller
  • nail-biting suspense

Word family

noun suspense
verb suspend
adjective suspenseful

Usage note

Suspense refers to a state of excited or anxious uncertainty about what may happen. It is often used in the context of storytelling or dramatic situations.

Example sentences

  1. The suspense in the air was palpable as we waited for the announcement.
  2. The author built up the suspense in the story by leaving clues.
  3. The suspenseful music in the scene added to the tension.
  4. The suspense of the game had everyone on the edge of their seats.
  5. The suspense in the mystery novel kept me guessing until the end.

Quotes

  • "The finest of pleasures are always the unexpected ones." - Erin Morgenstern, The Night Circus
  • "Suspense is worse than disappointment." - Robert Burns
  • "The suspense is terrible. I hope it will last." - Oscar Wilde

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