catch some z's
Definition
Verb phrase: - To fall asleep, to sleep: An informal, idiomatic expression meaning to go to sleep or to get some sleep. It is often used to suggest the need for or the act of sleeping, especially to recover from tiredness.
Usage
This phrase is used in casual, spoken English. It is not appropriate for formal writing or situations. It often conveys a sense of lightheartedness or humor about the need for sleep.
Examples
Advanced Usage
- The phrase humorously imitates the sound of snoring, where "z's" represents the comic-strip symbol for sleep (a series of "Z" letters, like "Zzz").
- It can be used in the imperative form as friendly advice.
- Hey, you've been studying all night. Go catch some z's.
Variants and Related Words
- Catch forty winks: Another informal idiom meaning to take a short nap.
- Get some shut-eye: A slang phrase meaning to get some sleep.
Synonyms
- Fall asleep
- Nod off
- Get some sleep
- Hit the sack (though this implies going to bed, not necessarily falling asleep immediately)
Related Idioms
- To be out like a light: To fall asleep very quickly and deeply.
- To sleep like a log: To sleep very soundly and without moving.
Verb
-
be asleep
