breathing-space
Definition
Noun: - A period of rest or pause in a busy or stressful situation; an opportunity to relax or recover. It refers to a short break that allows someone to regain composure or energy, often after exertion or difficulty.
Usage Examples
- (A short pause to relax and think clearly.)
- (A rest period to recover from continuous work.)
- (A temporary respite from stress.)
Advanced Usage
"to allow someone a breathing-space": to give someone a chance to rest or recover.
- The manager allowed the staff a breathing-space after the deadline. (Provided a short break.)
"to need a breathing-space": to require a pause for recovery.
- After the long hike, they needed a breathing-space before continuing. (Required a rest period.)
Variants and Related Words
Breathing space (n, alternative spelling): same meaning, often written as two words.
- The quiet room offered a welcome breathing space from the noise. (A place or time for rest.)
Breather (n, informal): a short rest or pause.
- Let's take a breather before the next race. (A brief rest.)
Synonyms
- Respite: a short period of rest or relief from something difficult or unpleasant.
- Pause: a temporary stop in action or speech.
- Breather: (informal) a short break.
Related Idioms
Catch one's breath: to pause and rest after exertion, similar to taking a breathing-space.
- She stopped to catch her breath after running up the stairs. (Paused to recover.)
Take a break: to stop an activity temporarily for rest.
- Let's take a break from studying. (Have a rest period.)
Phrasal Verbs
- Breathe easy: to relax after a period of tension or difficulty.
- After the exam, he could finally breathe easy. (Relax and feel relieved.)