Word: Time-out
Part of Speech: Noun
Basic Definition: A "time-out" is a short break in a game or activity where players stop playing for a moment. This can happen in sports, classrooms, or other situations to allow for rest, discussions, or to calm down.
Usage Instructions:
A time-out is typically called by a coach or referee during a game.
In classrooms, teachers might give a time-out to help students take a break and regain control of their behavior.
Example:
Sports Example: In basketball, each team has two time-outs left in the game, which they can use to discuss strategies or give players a rest.
Classroom Example: After the students became a bit too noisy, the teacher decided to give them a time-out to settle down.
Advanced Usage:
In a more general sense, "time-out" can refer to any situation where someone takes a break from an activity to reflect or calm down. For example, someone might say, "I need a time-out from work to recharge."
Word Variants:
Time-out (noun): The break itself.
Time-out (verb): To take a time-out (though this is less common).
Time-out (adjective): Related to taking a break, e.g., "time-out period."
Different Meanings:
In Sports: A pause in the game for teams to strategize.
In Parenting/Education: A method used to give a child a break from an activity or to reflect on their behavior.
In General Use: Taking a break from any stressful or overwhelming situation.
Synonyms:
Break
Pause
Intermission
Respite
Related Idioms and Phrasal Verbs:
Summary:
A "time-out" is a useful concept in various situations, especially in sports and educational settings. It allows individuals or teams to pause, reflect, and regroup before continuing with the activity.