PhrasesHub

take a break

    Definitions

      • rest
        Encourage someone to pause from their current activity or work to relax and refresh themselves

      • interrupt
        Suggest interrupting a conversation or task to allow for a brief interlude before continuing

      • change focus
        Imply switching focus from a current task or situation to something different for a short period of time

    Examples of take a break

    • John decided to take a break from work and go on a week-long trip to Bali.

      In this example, "take a break" is a phrasal verb meaning to stop doing something for a short period of time. John is taking a break from his work obligations to go on a relaxing vacation.

    • After studying for hours, Jessica suggested that they both take a break and grab some snacks.

      In this example, "take a break" is used as a noun phrase, emphasizing the importance of taking a break during a long study session. Jessica is proposing a short break to her study partner to refresh their minds and refuel their bodies.

    • During the final stretch of the project, the team agreed to take a break every hour to avoid burnout.

      In this example, "take a break" is being used as a verb phrase as part of a sentence structure. The team is implementing a regular break routine to help maintain their productivity and mental health throughout a long project.

    • After a grueling week, Mark decided to take a break from his screen and go for a walk in the park.

      In this example, "take a break" is being used as a phrasal verb with a prepositional object. Mark is taking a break from his electronic devices to enjoy some fresh air and exercise.

    • The programmer decided to take a break from coding and go for a walk outside.

      This example shows the use of "take a break" in a sentence to mean temporarily stopping an activity or task. In this case, the programmer is pausing his coding work to go for a walk outside, which can help him clear his mind and return to his work with a fresher perspective.

    • After working on the project for several hours, the team agreed to take a break and grab some coffee.

      Here, the phrase "take a break" is used to describe a brief pause from a specific task, in this case, working on the project. This break can help the team recharge and refocus before resuming work with renewed energy and focus.

    • The construction worker took a break from his laborious job and went to the gym to exercise for a while.

      This example shows that the phrase "take a break" can also be used to describe stopping an arduous task or activity for a while to engage in some other activity that is less taxing or more enjoyable.

    • As a way to manage stress, the busy executive made it a point to take regular breaks from his work and practice mindfulness meditation.

      Here, the phrase "take a break" is used to describe a deliberate pause from work and other activities to engage in a different, more restorative activity. This break can help the executive maintain his health and wellbeing, as well as improve his productivity and focus during his work hours.


    Conclusion

    The idiom "take a break" can be used in various contexts to suggest resting, interrupting, or changing focus temporarily. It is a versatile phrase that can be applied in work or leisure settings to encourage a brief pause for rejuvenation or diversion. Whether someone is feeling overwhelmed, in need of a mental break, or seeking a new perspective, "take a break" offers a simple and effective way to promote self-care and productivity.

    Origin of "take a break"

    The origin of the idiom "take a break" can be traced back to the idea of taking a pause or intermission during an activity. The word "break" itself refers to a period of time when one stops what they are doing to relax or engage in a different activity. This concept has been ingrained in various cultures and languages over time, highlighting the importance of taking breaks for mental and physical well-being.

    In English, the phrase "take a break" became popularized as a colloquial way to suggest taking a short rest or momentary pause. It has since become a common expression used in everyday language to remind individuals to step back, relax, and recharge. The idiom's simplicity and universality make it a valuable tool for promoting balance and productivity in a fast-paced world.