The phrase "come to a full stop" is commonly used in driving and means to completely stop the vehicle. It is spelled /kʌm tə ə fʊl stɒp/ in IPA phonetic transcription. The first sound in "come" is a short u sound, followed by the t sound. The a in "to" is pronounced like the first syllable in "ago". The second word, "a", has a schwa sound. "Full" is pronounced with a consonant blend of f and l, followed by a short u sound. "Stop" has an o sound followed by the p sound.
"Come to a full stop" is an idiomatic expression typically used to describe the complete cessation of movement or action. In driving, it refers to bringing a vehicle to a complete halt, signifying the wheels no longer rotating and the vehicle remaining stationary. The term is primarily employed in traffic regulations and road safety contexts and carries a crucial significance for maintaining order and preventing accidents on the road.
When a driver encounters a "Stop" sign or a traffic signal displaying a red light, they are required to come to a full stop by bringing their vehicle to a complete standstill before proceeding further. This involves ceasing all forward momentum and ensuring the vehicle remains stationary for a brief duration. It is important to note that simply slowing down or rolling slowly without completely stopping would not be considered coming to a full stop.
Beyond its literal usage in driving, the expression can also be used metaphorically to convey the idea of pausing, discontinuing an action, or taking a momentary break in everyday life situations. For instance, one might suggest that a discussion has come to a full stop when no further progress or dialogue is possible. In a broader sense, the phrase implies a complete cessation of any ongoing activity, often indicating the need to halt, evaluate the situation, and potentially make a deliberate decision on the next course of action.