When it comes to words that can be used interchangeably with "stand-downs," there are a few options. One possibility is "shutdowns," which refers to a temporary ceasing of operations. Another synonym is "suspensions," which conveys the idea of pausing something for a period of time. "Closures" is another option, particularly when referring to the closure of a business or institution. In some cases, "furloughs" can also be used, which indicates a temporary leave of absence for employees. Other related words that share elements of meaning with "stand-downs" include "breaks," "interruptions," and "hiatuses." Ultimately, the choice of synonym will depend on the specific context and desired connotations.