at the interval

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "at the interval" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a specific time or space between events or occurrences. Example: "The concert will have a break at the interval, allowing attendees to refresh before the second half."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sport

Entertainment

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"Many left at the interval.

The New Yorker

The others left at the interval.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

The Lions were only three adrift at the interval.

The Guardian - Sport

Palace had been 2-0 up at the interval.

The Guardian - Sport

His withdrawal at the interval felt like a mercy.

The Guardian - Sport

At the interval we went to the bar.

The Guardian - Film

At the interval, some while later, he remembered the visitor.

The Guardian - Sport

The sound of booing reverberated at the interval.

The Guardian - Sport

Arsenal, booed off at the interval, emerged buoyed.

The Guardian - Sport

Cardiff were unlucky to be behind at the interval.

The Guardian - Sport

As had the manager, ruthlessly, at the interval.

The Guardian - Sport

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "at the interval" when referring to a designated break in a performance, sporting event, or similar activity. This phrase clearly indicates a pause intended for rest or refreshment.

Common error

Avoid using "at the interval" interchangeably with 'halftime' if the context is exclusively a sporting event. While similar, 'halftime' is specific to sports, while "at the interval" applies more broadly to performances and events with planned breaks.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "at the interval" primarily functions as an adverbial phrase, modifying a verb or clause by specifying when an action occurs. It indicates the timing of an event, pinpointing it to the break between segments of a performance or event. Ludwig's examples illustrate its role in setting a temporal context.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Sport

40%

Entertainment

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

3%

Science

1%

Academia

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "at the interval" is a versatile phrase used to denote events occurring during a break in performances, sports, or meetings. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, it is grammatically correct and widely used, particularly in news and media contexts. While 'halftime' is a suitable alternative in sports, "at the interval" has broader applicability. When writing, ensure its use accurately reflects a pause for rest or refreshments. Remember there are several alternatives available, and your decision on which one to choose should be made depending on the type of text you are writing and the context.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

during the intermission

Replaces 'interval' with 'intermission', a more formal term for a break, particularly in performances.

during halftime

Specifically refers to the break in the middle of a sporting event.

at half time

A variant of 'halftime', using two words instead of one, but maintaining the same meaning.

during the break

A more general term indicating a pause or rest period.

in the middle

Implies a central point within a timeframe, substituting the more specific "interval".

midway through

Indicates a point halfway through an event or activity.

at the midpoint

Similar to 'midway through', emphasizing the central point of time.

during the lull

Suggests a temporary pause or quiet period within an activity.

at the pause

A simple and direct way to indicate a brief cessation of activity.

in the interim

Focuses on the time between two events, rather than a specific break within one.

FAQs

What does "at the interval" mean?

The phrase "at the interval" refers to a break or intermission, typically in a performance, sporting event, or meeting, providing a pause for rest or refreshments.

When is it appropriate to use "at the interval"?

Use "at the interval" when you want to specify something happening during the break or intermission of an event. It's suitable for describing actions, events, or observations made during that specific pause.

What are some alternatives to saying "at the interval"?

Alternatives include "during the intermission", "during halftime" (for sports), or simply "during the break", depending on the context.

Is there a difference between "at the interval" and "at half time"?

While similar, "at the interval" is more general and can apply to various events with planned breaks, such as plays or concerts. "At half time" is specific to sporting events and denotes the break in the middle of the game.