enforced interruption

[ɪnˈfɔːrst ˌɪntəˈrʌpʃən]
nounpl: enforced interruptions
interrupção forçada
1. A forced or mandatory break in continuity, activity, or service imposed by external circumstances or authority
The enforced interruption of the power supply lasted for three hours.
A interrupção forçada do fornecimento de energia durou três horas.
2. A sudden, compulsory stoppage of an ongoing process or event that cannot be avoided or postponed
Due to the pandemic, there was an enforced interruption of all sporting events.
Devido à pandemia, houve uma interrupção forçada de todos os eventos esportivos.
3. In labor contexts, a mandatory cessation of work due to legal, safety, or administrative requirements
The enforced interruption of production was necessary for equipment maintenance.
A interrupção forçada da produção foi necessária para manutenção do equipamento.
This term is commonly used in Brazil during discussions of labor strikes (paralisações), power outages (apagões), and public service disruptions. In the USA and English-speaking contexts, it became more prevalent during the COVID-19 pandemic when referring to business closures and supply chain interruptions. The phrase emphasizes the involuntary and authoritative nature of the stoppage, distinguishing it from voluntary breaks or routine maintenance.
Synonyms / Sinônimos
forced breakmandatory stoppagecompulsory suspensionimposed cessationmandatory interruption
Antonyms / Antônimos
continuous operationuninterrupted servicevoluntary continuationseamless flow

Regional Variations

General Brazilian
interrupção forçada
Standard usage across Brazil
São Paulo
interrupção forçada / parada obrigatória
Business and industrial contexts often use 'parada obrigatória'
Rio de Janeiro
interrupção forçada / paralisação
'Paralisação' commonly used in labor and strike contexts
Portugal
interrupção forçada / interrupção obrigatória
Portuguese usage is similar to Brazilian, with slight preference for 'obrigatória'

Related Words

interruptionsuspensionbreakstoppagehiatusforced cessation

Related Idioms & Phrases

forced to stop in one's tracks
came to a screeching halt
brought to a standstill
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