The term "brought grinding halt" refers to a sudden and complete stoppage of something. Antonyms for this phrase would include words or phrases that describe a gradual or partial slowing down or stopping of an activity. These might include terms like "slowed," "decelerated," or "paced." Rather than a sudden, dramatic stop, these words suggest a more gradual easing up or winding down of the action. For example, a sporting event might "slow to a halt" at the end of a quarter or half, or a project might "wind down" as its completion approaches. Antonyms for "brought grinding halt" therefore suggest a more measured and deliberate approach to stopping or slowing down an activity.