a long break

USAGE SUMMARY

"a long break" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it when referring to a period of time in which there was a significant amount of rest or relaxation. For example: "After months of hard work, I decided to take a long break and go on a vacation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

A long break.

The New York Times

So the narrative has a long break.

The New York Times - Arts

So, they took a long break.

The New York Times

How To Get Back To Studies After A Long Break?

Stanford University

"It's just that we've gotten together after a long break".

The New York Times - Arts

"We studied the challenging case of people returning to work after a long break.

Columbia University

Exhausted from lugging the carryall, YoungThing takes a long break, doubtful that he is on course.

The New Yorker

He only leaves town when there' a long break between rigging assignments.

The New Yorker

"She's going to have a long break for a year where she won't do anything.

Independent

After a long break, it's understandable that material needs dusting down.

Independent

He could never afford to get stopped – that meant a long break and no money".

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about returning to an activity after "a long break", clearly state the duration of the break to provide context for any potential adjustments or challenges the subject might face.

Common error

Avoid assuming everyone understands what constitutes "a long break" in your specific context. Quantify the duration (e.g., "a three-year break") to prevent ambiguity and ensure clarity for your audience.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a long break" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It acts as the subject or object in a sentence, denoting a period of cessation from an activity. Ludwig examples show its use in diverse contexts, from career pauses to academic interruptions.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

68%

Academia

12%

Wiki

9%

Less common in

Science

6%

Formal & Business

3%

Reference

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a long break" is a common and grammatically sound phrase used to describe an extended period of inactivity or rest. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage. Analysis of Ludwig examples reveals its prevalence in News & Media, Academia, and Wiki contexts. While semantically similar phrases like "an extended hiatus" or "a prolonged pause" exist, "a long break" maintains a neutral register suitable for diverse communication settings. When using the phrase, be mindful of providing context regarding the duration and nature of the break to ensure clarity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a prolonged pause

Emphasizes the temporary cessation of activity, suitable in contexts where continuity is expected.

an extended hiatus

Focuses on the interruption or suspension aspect, adding a formal tone.

a considerable respite

Highlights the relief and rest provided by the break, adding a touch of formality.

a lengthy interruption

Focuses on the disturbance of continuity, suitable when something is stopped for a significant time.

an extensive leave

Suggests a formal permission to be away, often from work or duties.

a prolonged recess

Similar to pause, but emphasizes a formal or structured setting, such as a legislative session.

a drawn-out intermission

Implies a break within a structured event, such as a performance or meeting, that is longer than usual.

a significant gap

Highlights the missing time or space between events, emphasizing the discontinuity.

an extended vacation

Specifically refers to a holiday period that is longer than typical, emphasizing leisure.

a sabbatical

Refers to an extended period away from work, typically for study or travel, often in academic contexts.

FAQs

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

You can use "a long break" to describe an extended period of time away from an activity. For example, "After years of working non-stop, she decided to take "a long break" to travel the world".

What are some alternatives to "a long break"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "an extended hiatus", "a prolonged pause", or "a considerable respite".

Is it grammatically correct to say "a long break"?

Yes, "a long break" is grammatically correct and commonly used in both spoken and written English. It follows standard English grammar rules.

What is the difference between "a long break" and "a long vacation"?

"A long break" is a more general term that can refer to time away from any activity, while "a long vacation" specifically refers to an extended period of leisure or travel. Therefore, "a long vacation" is more specific in its meaning.