a break between

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a break between" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a pause or interval separating two events, activities, or periods of time. Example: "We will take a break between the first and second sessions to allow everyone to refresh."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Thanksgiving recess is not a break between quarters.

Stanford University

During a break between talks, Lewis Ziska was surprisingly upbeat.

The New York Times - Magazine

Ideally, people who negotiate sequentially with different parties should take a break between negotiations.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

CRP students Cole Norgaarden and Jocelyn Lee provide tea during a break between presentations.

Cornell University

If the child loves airplanes, for example, provide them as a break between more therapeutic activities.

The New York Times

"It'll be a traditional program," Mr. Nelson said during a break between classes at the synagogue.

The New York Times

I was afraid that it meant a break between me and my parents.

The New Yorker

"There has to be a break between the historic ties between criminality and politics.

The Guardian

During a break between matches, friends told him not to bungle another one.

The New York Times - Sports

"I come as a package with the viola," he joked, in a break between pieces.

The New Yorker

One of the reasons I did it was because I needed a break between projects.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a break between", ensure that the elements being separated are clearly defined to avoid ambiguity.

Common error

Avoid using "a break between" when referring to continuous or inseparable elements; it implies a distinct separation that may not exist.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a break between" functions as a prepositional phrase, often acting as an adverbial modifier to indicate a temporal or spatial separation. Ludwig's examples show its use in academic, news, and general contexts, supporting its broad applicability.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

52%

Academia

24%

Science

14%

Less common in

Wiki

6%

Formal & Business

4%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a break between" is a versatile phrase used to indicate a separation or interval between two elements. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and wide applicability across various contexts. The phrase is frequently used in news and media, academic writing, and scientific discourse, as confirmed by Ludwig's examples. When using this phrase, ensure that the elements being separated are clearly defined. While generally neutral, consider alternatives like "an interval separating" or "a pause amidst" for nuanced meanings. In essence, mastering the use of "a break between" involves recognizing its role in providing clarity and structure to your writing.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a space between

Highlights the physical or metaphorical area that differentiates two items.

a period separating

Stresses that it is a certain amount of time dividing elements.

an interval separating

Focuses on the duration of the separation, implying a defined period.

a division between

Emphasizes a clear distinction that keeps two elements separate.

a pause amidst

Suggests a brief cessation within an ongoing activity or situation.

an interruption of

Suggests a disturbance that momentarily halts the continuity.

a gap separating

Emphasizes the space or distance that exists between two entities.

a lapse separating

Highlights the passage of time as a separator.

a respite during

Implies a temporary relief or rest within a continuous period.

a separation of

Broadly indicates a division or detachment between two things.

FAQs

How can I use "a break between" in a sentence?

You can use "a break between" to indicate an interval separating two events, activities, or periods, such as, "There's a break between races".

What are some alternatives to "a break between"?

Alternatives include "an interval separating", "a pause amidst", or "a gap separating", depending on the specific context.

Is there a difference between "a break between" and "an interval between"?

"A break between" generally implies a temporary cessation or pause, while "an interval between" ("an interval between") suggests a measured space or time separating two things.

When is it appropriate to use "a break between" instead of "a pause in"?

"A break between" is suitable when there are distinct, separate events or activities, whereas "a pause in" is more appropriate for interrupting a continuous action or state.