freeze up
Intermediate (B1) informal
To suddenly stop working or stop being able to do anything, like when you're so scared you can't speak.
"She completely froze up when the interviewer asked her to describe her greatest weakness."
Hear it in context
Improve your English speaking fluency | Shadowing practice for one hour
linguamarina · 33:11
I just freeze up sometimes.
This Restaurant Earned a Michelin Star in Just 9 Months | On The Line | Bon Appétit
Bon Appétit · 7:05
let that freeze up before we punch it
Why You Freeze When You Speak English (Even After Years of Practice)
Speak English With Tiffani · 13:00
and it actually causes you to freeze up,
The 2025 Christmas Q&A (feat. Mary Willems)
Patrick Willems Presents · 55:48
that I might freeze up and like you
THE AMAZING DIGITAL CIRCUS - Ep 7: Beach Episode
GLITCH · 15:22
he'll freeze up, and you'll be able to grab the key