Stop-start describes a pattern or process characterized by intermittent periods of activity and inactivity; a cyclical sequence of halting and resuming. This can apply to machines, vehicles, or any system where motion or operation is irregular and alternates between operation and standstill, requiring periods of acceleration and deceleration or suspension of all activity. The term implies inefficiency, disruption, or perhaps a deliberate design or feature to improve efficiency in some situations, like fuel consumption, or a manifestation of a lack of consistency.
Stop-start meaning with examples
- The city's traffic was a classic stop-start nightmare, making commuting during rush hour incredibly frustrating. Cars frequently decelerated before coming to a complete halt, only to start again, the process repeating every few seconds. This inconsistent flow negatively impacted overall travel times and fuel economy.
- Many modern cars are now equipped with stop-start technology to conserve fuel in urban environments. At a red light, the engine automatically shuts off, restarting the moment the driver lifts their foot from the brake pedal, reducing emissions and improving fuel economy. It is a helpful feature.
- The software update introduced an unfortunate stop-start behaviour that disrupted the user experience. Applications would intermittently freeze, becoming unresponsive before continuing. The erratic pauses in performance required the team to revert back to the prior version in a matter of minutes.
- Learning to play a musical instrument can be stop-start; progress may come in bursts followed by plateaus. Frustration can arise from the slow and uneven process, as the player takes steps forward, struggles, then practices, or revisits easier levels. This requires patience and determination.
- The economic recovery has been described as a stop-start process due to fluctuating market confidence and external factors, and has impacted business decisions. Periods of growth are intermittently punctuated by recessions and periods of decline, leading to instability and uncertainty for companies.