a break during

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a break during" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a pause or interruption that occurs within a specific timeframe or event. Example: "We will take a break during the meeting to allow everyone to stretch and refresh."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

With a break during the Delaware competition, the team came home for two days.

The New York Times

5.31pm BST In the stifling heat, Milos Raonic takes a break during the second set.

The Guardian - Sport

This prompted a break, during which Vardy studied sports science in Rotherham.

The Guardian - Sport

Williams agreed, admitting that he barely took a break during the 2012 off-season.

The New York Times - Sports

They took a break during yesterday's downpour and then resumed, working until about 5 p.m., officials said.

The New York Times

They have taken place every year since, save for a break during the second world war between 1939 and 1942.

The Guardian

Giving players a break during the final games of the regular season appears to be part of Frank's playoff strategy.

The New York Times

The survey also reveals that NHS workers are the least likely to take a break during a working day.

The Guardian

It began in 1935 and has been played annually ever since, with a break during World War II.

The New York Times - Arts

"When I ran for office, I was attacked personally," he recounted last week, taking a break during his Morris County kickoff day.

The New York Times

After a break during the Democratic convention, the Bush campaign will begin advertising again within the next few days, campaign officials said.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Vary your vocabulary by using synonyms like "pause", "respite", or "intermission" to avoid repetition and enhance the sophistication of your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "a break during" when the break encompasses the entire period. If the break is the event, consider alternatives like "a break for" or "a vacation in".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a break during" functions as a prepositional phrase, modifying a noun or verb phrase to specify when a pause or interruption occurs. Ludwig confirms its correct and usable nature in written English. For instance, "taking a break during training" clarifies when the rangers took a pause.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Wiki

15%

Science

5%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "a break during" is a grammatically sound and commonly used prepositional phrase that serves to specify the timing of a pause or interruption within a larger event or activity. As confirmed by Ludwig, its versatility allows for use across various contexts, from formal news reports to informal conversations. While synonyms like "pause", "respite", and "intermission" exist, understanding the specific nuance each conveys can enhance your writing's precision. Avoiding its use when the break encompasses the entire event is crucial to prevent scope errors.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a pause during

Highlights a brief cessation of activity.

an interruption during

Emphasizes the disruptive nature of the pause.

a respite during

Suggests a period of relief or rest amidst an ongoing activity.

time off during

Focuses on a period of leave or absence within a larger timeframe.

an interval during

Highlights a measured period of time between events.

a lull during

Indicates a temporary period of calm or inactivity.

a recess during

Specifies a formal or scheduled break.

a temporary cessation during

Formally describes a short-term halt in an activity.

a hiatus during

Emphasizes a longer or more significant pause.

a suspension during

Highlights the temporary nature of stopping something.

FAQs

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

Use "a break during" to indicate a pause or interruption within a specific activity or period. For example, "They took "a break during" the meeting to discuss the new proposal".

What are some alternatives to "a break during"?

Alternatives include "an interruption during", "a pause during", or "a respite during", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it correct to say "a break in" instead of "a break during"?

While "a break in" can sometimes be used, it often implies an interruption of something rather than a planned pause within it. "A break during" is more appropriate when referring to a scheduled or expected interruption.

What's the difference between "a break during" and "a break after"?

"A break during" indicates that the pause occurs within an event, while "a break after" indicates the pause happens at the conclusion of the event. The preposition drastically changes the timing of the "break".