Use when something has a powerful effect that causes a person to pause suddenly. Her performance was so moving, it stopped everyone in their tracks.
Pro Tip 2/3
Emotional Reaction
Often relates to a sudden emotional reaction such as shock, awe, or fear. When the verdict was read, the silence that followed stopped us in our tracks.
Pro Tip 3/3
Unexpected Events
Best used in scenarios where the cause of stopping is unforeseen. The deer leaping onto the path stopped the cyclist in his tracks.