ask for a respite

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "ask for a respite" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when requesting a break or a pause from a difficult situation or task. Example: "After weeks of intense work, I decided to ask for a respite to recharge and gather my thoughts."

✓ Grammatically correct

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

60 human-written examples

Maybe he'd even ask for a toke, realising that he too longed for some kind of respite from the shattered dreams of his adult life.

Vice

Mack asks Yertle for a respite, but Yertle just tells him to be quiet.

Wikipedia

They also asked for an extra six hours of respite care (which comes in the form of a regular lump sum so the family can pay carers to come in and help out) and requested that they be allocated a link family, similar to a foster family, who would gradually get to know Celyn, and be able to help out from time to time.

The Guardian

And the very first time we asked for respite, we were told we wouldn't get it unless he was being neglected; unless he wasn't being fed properly or kept clean.

The Guardian

I feel comfortable dropping by their lab to ask for advice, lab-related or not". The Upper East Side provides a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of more crowded areas of the city.

Cornell University

But built into Captain DeSimone's job is one of the best respites he could ever ask for, he says.

The New York Times

We haven't asked for or received any respite care, but are confident that it will be available when Jasmine gets older.

Independent

I take a bathroom break for a respite from all of the stimulation.

Vice

For many, the day was a chance for a respite.

The New York Times

His assistant, Jean Bair, was equally happy for a respite.

The New York Times

"It will be a chance for a respite".

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "ask for a respite", clearly specify the reason for needing the break to ensure the request is understood and appropriately addressed.

Common error

Avoid using "ask for a respite" when you actually need a permanent solution. A respite is a temporary break, not a fix to the underlying problem.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "ask for a respite" functions as a verb phrase indicating a request for a temporary break or relief. The verb "ask" is modified by the prepositional phrase "for a respite" to specify the object of the request.

Expression frequency: Missing

Frequent in

Science

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Formal & Business

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Less common in

Science

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News & Media

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Formal & Business

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Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "ask for a respite" is used to request a temporary break or relief from a challenging situation. Although the phrase is grammatically correct and can be used in written English, the phrase has missing example usages. The register is generally neutral. Related phrases include "request a break" and "seek a pause".

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

request a break

Directly substitutes "ask for" with "request", maintaining the overall meaning of seeking a temporary pause.

seek a pause

Replaces "ask for a respite" with a more formal tone, still conveying the need for a temporary cessation.

solicit a recess

Uses a more formal vocabulary to express the action of requesting a break.

appeal for a breather

Implies a more urgent or emotional need for a respite, using "appeal" to emphasize the request.

put in a request for time off

Specifies the type of respite, indicating time away from work or other responsibilities.

apply for a sabbatical

Refers to a longer, more formal type of respite, usually from academic or professional duties.

petition for a reprieve

Suggests seeking a temporary suspension of a punishment or difficult situation.

desire a lull

Expresses a wish for a period of calm or quiet, similar to a respite.

yearn for a pause

Conveys a strong longing for a temporary cessation, emphasizing the emotional need.

require a recess

Indicates that a break is necessary or essential, framing it as a requirement.

FAQs

What does "ask for a respite" mean?

To "ask for a respite" means to request a temporary period of relief or rest from something difficult or demanding.

When is it appropriate to "ask for a respite"?

It's appropriate to "ask for a respite" when you need a temporary break from a demanding task, situation, or responsibility to prevent burnout or improve performance.

What are some alternatives to "ask for a respite"?

You can use alternatives like "request a break", "seek a pause", or "apply for time off" depending on the context.

How formal is the phrase "ask for a respite"?

The phrase "ask for a respite" is generally considered neutral to slightly formal. The level of formality depends more on the context of the request.