at break time

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "at break time" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a specific period during which individuals take a break from work or activities, often in a school or workplace setting. Example: "We can discuss the project further at break time when everyone is free to chat."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

47 human-written examples

You can only take breaks at break time.

The New York Times

At break time, the children trooped towards the playground.

The Guardian

At break time, Chloe asks to see what he brought for snack.

The New York Times - Books

MyStudentHomeworkPlanner on Chrome or MyHomeWorkApp to eradicate those irritating reminder conversations at break time.

The Guardian

At break time, a boy kicks a soccer ball around the yard by himself.

Independent

Pupils themselves are increasingly caught in diabolo friendly-fire incidents at break time.

The Guardian - Opinion

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

13 human-written examples

We will also provide lunch and refreshments at break times.

University of California, Berkeley

His tribe operated on a strict hierarchy when there was work to be done but everyone played football together on the beach at break times.

The Guardian - Travel

We meet at break times to discuss books and plan to do lots of different activities about reading and books including making animated film trailers and planning events.

The Guardian

In Japan, hundreds of schools have been growing cucumbers up their walls to keep temperatures down, with the children tending the plants at break times.

The Guardian - Money

Teachers who have worked with children with ADHD say they have dealt with violence - including stabbing other pupils - both in the classroom and at break times.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "at break time" to clearly indicate a specific period allocated for rest or leisure within a structured schedule, such as in schools or workplaces. For example, "Students are encouraged to socialize at break time." This ensures clarity regarding when the break occurs.

Common error

Avoid using "at break time" when referring to general periods of free time or leisure that are not part of a structured schedule. For instance, instead of saying "I like to read at break time on weekends", use "I like to read in my free time on weekends" to better reflect the unstructured nature of the activity.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "at break time" functions primarily as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb to indicate when an action takes place. It specifies the timing of events or activities that occur during a scheduled break, such as in Ludwig's examples involving school activities and workplace interactions. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

20%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

3%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "at break time" is a common and grammatically correct prepositional phrase used to indicate when an event occurs during a scheduled break. Ludwig identified numerous examples from reputable sources such as The Guardian and The New York Times, confirming its frequent use in various contexts, particularly in news, media, and educational settings. As pointed out by Ludwig AI, it is suitable for neutral registers, making it versatile for different communication needs. When using "at break time", ensure that it refers to a structured break period and consider alternatives like "during recess" or "during the interval" for similar meanings. Avoid confusing it with general free time.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

during recess

Specifies a break period, often in a school setting, focusing on children's playtime.

during the interval

Refers to a pause in an event or performance, highlighting the temporary cessation.

during the pause

Emphasizes a brief cessation of activity, focusing on the interruption.

during the rest period

Highlights the aspect of resting and recuperating during the break.

in one's downtime

Focuses on personal time away from work or duties, suggesting leisure.

during one's off-hours

Emphasizes the time when someone is not working or on duty.

during the tea break

Specifically refers to a short break for tea or refreshments, common in some workplaces.

during the coffee break

Like "tea break", this specifies a break for coffee, common in professional settings.

during the lunch break

Specifies the midday break for lunch, focusing on mealtime.

in moments of respite

Highlights the relief and relaxation provided by a short break.

FAQs

How can I use "at break time" in a sentence?

Use "at break time" to indicate activities or events that occur during a scheduled break, such as "The students play in the yard "at break time"" or "Teachers often discuss lesson plans "at break time"".

What phrases are similar to "at break time"?

Similar phrases include /s/during+recess , /s/during+the+interval, and /s/during+the+pause . The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "during break time" instead of "at break time"?

While "at break time" is more common and idiomatic, "during break time" is also understandable but slightly less frequent. "At" specifies a particular point in time within the scheduled break.

What is the difference between "at break time" and "in break time"?

"At break time" is the correct and commonly used phrase. "In break time" is grammatically incorrect and not used in standard English.