The word "stop working" is spelled using the International Phonetic Alphabet as /stɑp ˈwɜrkɪŋ/. The first sound is a voiceless alveolar plosive /st/, followed by a mid back unrounded vowel /ɑ/. The next sound is a voiceless bilabial stop /p/, which is then followed by a primary stress marker /ˈ/. Then comes the sound of a mid-central vowel /wɜ/, followed by an alveolar voiced plosive /rk/. The final sound is a present participle suffix, pronounced as /ɪŋ/.
Stop working refers to the cessation or discontinuation of an activity, process, or function that was previously taking place. It often points to the inability or failure to perform or operate as intended. This expression applies to a wide range of contexts, including mechanical devices, electronic equipment, systems, machines, engines, appliances, and even individuals.
In the case of machines or appliances, stop working implies the sudden or gradual halt or breakdown in their usual operations, rendering them non-functional or inoperable. This can be caused by various factors such as mechanical failure, power outage, component malfunction, or lack of maintenance. When a machine or appliance stops working, it ceases to perform its designated tasks, resulting in a disruption of normal functionality and potentially leading to inconveniences or delays.
Furthermore, stop working can also be used to describe the cessation of productivity or efficiency in an individual or a group of people. This can occur due to various reasons, such as exhaustion, burnout, lack of motivation, or loss of interest. When someone stops working, they discontinue their work-related activities and may experience a decline in performance or output.
Overall, whether referring to machines, appliances, or individuals, stop working indicates the cessation or failure of function, thereby hindering the progress or normal functioning of a given entity.
The word "stop" comes from the Old English word "stoppian", which means to block or block up. It can also be traced back to the Proto-Germanic word "stuppōną", meaning to block, stuff, or seal.
The word "working" comes from the Old English word "weorcian", which means to perform labor or exert effort. It is derived from the Proto-Germanic word "werkaną", also meaning to work.
When combined, "stop working" simply means to halt or cease performing labor or exerting effort.