Definition

1. Verb (idiomatic):
   • To take a short break, specifically one lasting approximately ten minutes. This phrase is an informal instruction or suggestion to pause an activity for a brief period of rest.

Usage

• This phrase is used as an imperative or a statement to indicate a short, timed pause in work, rehearsal, or practice.
• It is common in informal or semi-formal settings like rehearsals, meetings, or work sessions.

Examples

• Verb:
  • We've been working hard for two hours; let's take ten and get some coffee.
  • The director told the exhausted cast to take ten before running the scene again.

Advanced Usage

• The phrase implies a brief, structured respite. While "ten" suggests ten minutes, the break may be slightly shorter or longer in practice.
• It is often used by someone in a leadership or organizational role (e.g., a director, manager, team lead) to call for a break.

Variants and Related Words

• Take five: An even more common synonym meaning to take a five-minute break.
  • This song is tricky. Let's take five and come back to it.
• Break (n): A general pause or interval.
• Recess (n): A temporary break from proceedings.

Synonyms

• Have a break: To pause for rest.
• Pause: To stop temporarily.

Related Phrases

• Grab a breather: To take a moment to rest and catch one's breath (informal).
  • After that sprint, I need to grab a breather.

Verb

1. take a ten minute break
   • The players took ten during the long rehearsal