Top 26 Slang For Break – Meaning & Usage

Taking a break is essential for recharging and staying productive, but what about the slang associated with it? We’ve got you covered with a list of the coolest and most popular slang terms for taking a break. Whether you’re a student, a professional, or just in need of some downtime, this list will have you covered with the trendiest ways to talk about kicking back and relaxing. So sit back, relax, and get ready to upgrade your break lingo with us!

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1. Breather

A “breather” refers to a short period of rest or pause during an activity or task. It is a momentary break to catch one’s breath or relax before continuing.

For example, “I need to take a breather after running for 10 miles.”
During a long study session, someone might say, “Let’s take a breather and grab a snack.”
In a work setting, a coworker might suggest, “Let’s all take a breather and regroup before tackling the next project.”

2. Timeout

A “timeout” is an official break in a game or activity, often called by a coach or referee. It allows the players to regroup, strategize, or catch their breath before continuing the game.

For instance, in basketball, a coach might call a timeout to discuss tactics with the team.
During a heated argument, someone might say, “I need a timeout to calm down and collect my thoughts.”
In a board game, a player might call a timeout to use the restroom or take a quick break.

3. Recess

“Recess” is a designated break time, especially for students in school. It is a period of time when students are allowed to play, socialize, or engage in leisure activities.

For example, “I can’t wait for recess to play with my friends on the playground.”
During a long workday, someone might say, “I wish adults had recess too.”
In a school setting, a teacher might announce, “It’s recess time! Go outside and have fun.”

4. Intermission

An “intermission” is a break between two parts of a performance, such as a play, concert, or movie. It allows the audience to take a break, use the restroom, or grab refreshments before the next part begins.

For instance, during a theater play, there is often an intermission after Act 1.
At a movie theater, someone might say, “Let’s get popcorn during the intermission.”
During a concert, the performer might say, “We’ll be back after a short intermission.”

5. Pit stop

A “pit stop” is a quick break during a race or journey to refuel, make adjustments, or perform maintenance on a vehicle. It is a strategic break to ensure optimal performance and efficiency.

For example, in Formula One racing, drivers make pit stops to change tires and refuel.
During a road trip, someone might say, “Let’s make a pit stop to stretch our legs and grab some snacks.”
In a long car race, the team might announce, “The driver is coming in for a pit stop to change tires.”

6. Siesta

A short sleep or rest taken during the day, especially in hot countries. “Siesta” is a term often used to refer to a midday nap or break, particularly in Spanish-speaking cultures.

For instance, “I’m going to take a siesta after lunch to recharge.”
In a conversation about productivity, someone might say, “Taking a short siesta can actually improve focus and productivity.”
A person sharing their vacation experience might mention, “I love the siesta culture in Spain. It’s a great way to relax and escape the midday heat.”

7. Chill time

A period of time set aside for relaxation or leisure activities. “Chill time” refers to a break or downtime where one can unwind and do things they enjoy.

For example, “I’m going to have some chill time this weekend and catch up on my favorite TV shows.”
A person discussing work-life balance might say, “It’s important to prioritize chill time to avoid burnout.”
Someone might suggest, “Let’s have some chill time and play video games together.”

8. Coffee break

A short break from work or other activities to have a cup of coffee. “Coffee break” is a term used to describe a brief respite where one can enjoy a cup of coffee and take a break from their tasks.

For instance, “I’m going to take a coffee break and grab a cup of joe.”
In a discussion about office culture, someone might mention, “The coffee break is a great opportunity to socialize with coworkers.”
A person sharing their daily routine might say, “My favorite part of the day is my morning coffee break.”

9. Pause

A temporary stop or interruption in an activity or process. “Pause” refers to a break or momentary halt in order to rest, reflect, or regroup.

For example, “I need to take a pause and clear my mind before continuing.”
In a conversation about mindfulness, someone might say, “Taking a pause throughout the day can help reduce stress and improve focus.”
A person discussing public speaking might advise, “Don’t be afraid to take a pause during your speech to gather your thoughts.”

10. Quick breather

A brief break or moment to catch one’s breath and relax. “Quick breather” is a term used to describe a short pause or momentary rest to regain energy or composure.

For instance, “I just need a quick breather before tackling the next task.”
In a discussion about exercise, someone might say, “Taking a quick breather between sets can help prevent injury and improve performance.”
A person sharing their busy schedule might mention, “I schedule quick breathers throughout the day to avoid feeling overwhelmed.”

11. Reprieve

A reprieve refers to a temporary break or relief from a difficult or challenging situation. It is often used to describe a pause or respite from work or responsibilities.

For example, “I need a reprieve from all this stress. I’m going on vacation next week.”
Someone might say, “Let’s take a reprieve and grab a coffee before we continue working.”
In a discussion about work-life balance, a person might suggest, “It’s important to schedule regular reprieves to avoid burnout.”

12. Respite

A respite refers to a short period of rest or relief from something stressful or demanding. It is often used to describe a break or pause in activity.

For instance, “I took a respite from studying and went for a walk to clear my mind.”
Someone might say, “I need a respite from all the noise. I’m going to sit in a quiet room for a while.”
In a conversation about caregiving, a person might mention, “Taking regular respites is essential for the well-being of caregivers.”

13. Interlude

An interlude refers to a short period of time between two events or activities. It is often used to describe a break or pause in a sequence of actions.

For example, “Let’s have an interlude and listen to some music before we continue with the meeting.”
Someone might say, “During the interlude between classes, I like to grab a snack.”
In a discussion about a concert, a person might mention, “The band played a beautiful interlude that provided a moment of reflection.”

14. Hiatus

A hiatus refers to a temporary break or interruption in an activity or process. It is often used to describe a pause or gap in something that is normally continuous.

For instance, “The TV show is going on hiatus for a few months before the next season.”
Someone might say, “I’m taking a hiatus from social media to focus on my mental health.”
In a conversation about a band, a person might mention, “After their world tour, the band decided to go on a hiatus to recharge.”

15. Stand-down

A stand-down refers to a temporary cessation of activity or a break in action. It is often used to describe a momentary pause or halt in a process or operation.

For example, “The military ordered a stand-down to review safety procedures.”
Someone might say, “Let’s have a stand-down and regroup before making any more decisions.”
In a discussion about a protest, a person might mention, “The protesters agreed to a stand-down to allow negotiations to take place.”

16. Ease up

To take it easy or reduce the intensity of a situation or task. It can refer to both physical and mental relaxation.

For example, “I’ve been working non-stop, I need to ease up and take a break.”
Someone might say, “Ease up, there’s no need to stress over every little detail.”
In a sports context, a coach might tell their team to “ease up” during a practice session to prevent injuries.

17. Decompress

To relax and release stress or tension, often after a period of intense activity or pressure.

For instance, “After a long day at work, I like to decompress by taking a hot bath.”
Someone might say, “I need some time to decompress and clear my mind before tackling the next task.”
In a conversation about self-care, a person might mention the importance of finding ways to decompress and recharge.

18. Step away

To physically or mentally remove oneself from a situation or task for a short period of time.

For example, “I need to step away from my desk and take a walk to clear my head.”
Someone might say, “When things get overwhelming, it’s important to step away and gain a fresh perspective.”
In a discussion about work-life balance, a person might suggest stepping away from work to prioritize personal well-being.

19. Catch a break

To experience a positive turn of events or have something go one’s way after a period of difficulty or bad luck.

For instance, “I finally caught a break and won the lottery.”
Someone might say, “I’ve been having a rough week, I just need to catch a break.”
In a conversation about someone’s job search, a person might say, “I hope they catch a break and find a great opportunity soon.”

20. Regroup

To gather or come together again, often after a setback or disruption, in order to reassess and plan the next steps.

For example, “After losing the first game, the team needs to regroup and come up with a new strategy.”
Someone might say, “Let’s take a moment to regroup and figure out how to approach this problem.”
In a discussion about a failed project, a person might suggest regrouping and learning from past mistakes to move forward.

21. Recharge

To take a break in order to rest and regain energy. It can refer to both physical and mental rest.

For example, “I need to recharge my batteries after a long day at work.”
A student might say, “I’m going to recharge with a quick nap before studying.”
Someone might suggest, “Let’s take a break and recharge with a cup of coffee.”

22. Unwind

To relax and let go of stress or tension. It often involves engaging in activities that help one relax and find calmness.

For instance, “I like to unwind by taking a hot bath and reading a book.”
A person might say, “After a long day, I just want to unwind and watch some TV.”
Someone might suggest, “Let’s go for a walk to unwind and clear our minds.”

23. Take a breather

To take a short break or pause in order to catch one’s breath or rest for a moment.

For example, “I’ve been working non-stop, I need to take a breather.”
In a sports context, a coach might say, “Take a breather and hydrate before going back in.”
Someone might suggest, “Let’s take a breather and grab a snack before continuing.”

24. Break time

A specific period of time designated for taking a break from work or other activities.

For instance, “It’s break time, let’s take a 15-minute break.”
A teacher might announce, “It’s break time, you can relax and chat with your classmates.”
A person might ask, “What time is our break time?”

25. Time out

A temporary pause or interruption in an activity or situation.

For example, “I need to call a time out and gather my thoughts.”
In a game, a referee might say, “Time out, we need to review the play.”
A parent might say, “I’m calling a time out, everyone needs to calm down.”

26. Mental break

A mental break refers to taking time off from work or daily responsibilities to rest and rejuvenate your mind. It is a period of relaxation and self-care.

For example, “I’m feeling really stressed out, I need to take a mental break and go for a walk.”
During a busy workday, someone might say, “I need a mental break, I’m going to take a few minutes to meditate.”
A student preparing for exams might say, “I’m going to schedule a mental break every hour to avoid burnout.”