a quick interlude

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a quick interlude" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a brief pause or break in a narrative or discussion, often to provide additional information or context. Example: "Before we continue with the main topic, let's take a quick interlude to discuss the background of the issue."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

2 human-written examples

From the funk surge of "Williams Blood" to the downtown sashay of "Warm Leatherette," she sounded amazing at every turn, even taking a quick interlude to perform, yep, a bit of "Amazing Grace" a capella.

Los Angeles Times

Except for a quick interlude where Big Jim turns up at the home of a resident who refuses to give away his guns and talks him down from committing suicide via hand grenade, things go pretty much according to Jim's plan.

Huffington Post

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

58 human-written examples

Updated at 4.55am BST 4.23am BST Cross cultural asides And as the gang heads to meet whomever's out Monday night in Chicago, we can take a quick architectural interlude courtesy @woyce, who more or less hit upon the two highlights that the team missed.

The Guardian - Travel

It's a short few steps out the Conservatory Gate, on the northwest end, and into Lincoln Park Conservatory, for a quick botanical interlude in your zoo day.

Los Angeles Times

(Actually, before that there was quick interlude of looks from Ms. Karan's Casual Luxe line, which were even more covered up, so much so that some were made of wool stadium blankets styled as kilts, shawls or vests).

The New York Times

Quick interlude: I grew up in the Bronx, of immigrant parents.

Huffington Post

And it doesn't always have to take a lot of time - while a long romantic interlude is great, sometimes a quick romp provides all the connection you need!

Huffington Post

There was no embarrassment, and no desire to progress to a quick feel, but it was a nice little interlude quickly (almost) forgotten.

The Guardian - Opinion

On a quick listen you might miss out on orgasmic interlude in this cut off Maceo Plex's 2014 series concept EPs of Conjure.

Vice

There are no obvious heroes or facile villains in "The Duel," which unhurriedly moves among the players in scenes that capture a mood, or serve as a quick character sketch, or function on both counts, as in a brief, early interlude in which Laevsky lies stretched across a sofa with a handkerchief over his face, seemingly napping.

The New York Times

A quick rinse?

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a quick interlude" to signal a deliberate, brief deviation from the main topic, offering a change of pace or additional context without losing focus. This can be effective in both formal and informal writing.

Common error

Avoid using "a quick interlude" too frequently, as it can become repetitive and disrupt the flow of your writing. Opt for simpler alternatives like "a brief pause" or "a short break" when appropriate to maintain a natural and engaging style.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a quick interlude" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as a subject or object within a sentence. It introduces a brief pause or deviation from the main subject, often to offer additional context or a change of pace. Ludwig AI's analysis confirms its grammatical correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

33%

Science

17%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a quick interlude" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase that refers to a brief pause or deviation from the main subject. Ludwig AI confirms this, supported by examples from sources like The New York Times and The Guardian. While not extremely common, this phrase is suitable for both formal and informal writing, signaling a deliberate shift in focus. Related phrases include "a short pause" and "a brief respite". When using this phrase, ensure it doesn't become repetitive and consider simpler alternatives for clarity and flow.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a brief respite

Replaces "interlude" with "respite", emphasizing a temporary break from something difficult or unpleasant.

a short pause

Uses more common and simple terms, suitable for informal contexts.

a fleeting moment

Highlights the brief and transient nature of the break.

a momentary digression

Emphasizes a departure from the main subject or activity.

a brief diversion

Suggests that the interlude is something that distracts or amuses.

a small break

Simple and direct alternative, focusing on the interruption of activity.

a passing phase

Emphasizes the temporary nature of the "interlude" as part of a larger sequence.

a short recess

Implies a more formal and structured break.

a quick timeout

Informal alternative, suitable for less formal settings.

a temporary suspension

Highlights the cessation of the main activity during the "interlude".

FAQs

How can I use "a quick interlude" in a sentence?

You can use "a quick interlude" to introduce a short break or diversion in a conversation, performance, or written piece. For example, "After the intense debate, we took "a quick interlude" to enjoy some refreshments".

What are some alternatives to "a quick interlude"?

Some alternatives to "a quick interlude" include phrases like "a short pause", "a brief respite", or "a momentary digression", depending on the specific context and desired nuance.

Is "a quick interlude" formal or informal?

"A quick interlude" can be used in both formal and informal contexts, but it's generally perceived as slightly more literary or sophisticated than simpler alternatives like "a short break".

When is it appropriate to use "a quick interlude" instead of "a short break"?

Use "a quick interlude" when you want to emphasize the deliberate and somewhat thematic nature of the break, suggesting it serves a purpose beyond mere interruption. "A short break" is more neutral and simply indicates a temporary pause.