coffee break

USAGE SUMMARY

'coffee break' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to refer to a short break in the day dedicated to getting a cup of coffee and a snack. For example, "I plan to take a coffee break around 3:00 this afternoon."

✓ Grammatically correct

Academia

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

What is Coffee Break?

University of California, Berkeley

"Sports is a coffee break.

The New York Times - Sports

During the same coffee break.

The New Yorker

Coffee break and lunch will be provided.

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

UC Berkeley Events Calendar: Coffee Break!

University of California, Berkeley

Join the Coffee Break every Wednesday afternoon!

University of California, Berkeley

Join us for our weekly coffee break!

University of California, Berkeley

Re "Cocktails on a Coffee Break?

The New York Times

One of the first was Coffee Break.

The Guardian

I have another coffee break on seven".

The New Yorker

During an afternoon coffee break, I caught up with Corell.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When writing about scheduled events, specify the duration of the "coffee break" to provide clarity (e.g., "a 15-minute coffee break").

Common error

Avoid replacing "coffee break" with overly formal or ambiguous terms like "interlude" or "recess" unless the context specifically warrants it. "Coffee break" is clear and concise for its intended meaning.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "coffee break" functions primarily as a noun phrase, referring to a scheduled or impromptu short break from work or other activities, usually to drink coffee or other beverages. This is consistent with Ludwig's definition and examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

42%

Academia

35%

Science & Research

7%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Science

3%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "coffee break" is a common and grammatically correct noun phrase referring to a short rest period, often involving coffee. Ludwig provides numerous examples from reputable sources, confirming its wide usage in both academic and news media contexts. Alternatives include "tea break" or "short recess", but the original phrase remains a clear and concise way to describe this familiar concept. Ludwig AI also confirms that this phrase is correct and usable in written English.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

tea break

Replaces coffee with tea as the beverage of choice during the break.

short recess

Focuses on the aspect of a brief pause from activity without specifying refreshments.

brief respite

Highlights the relief or rest provided by the break.

quick pause

Emphasizes the short duration of the break.

ten-minute break

Specifies the length of the break.

fifteen-minute break

Specifies the length of the break with a different duration.

time out

A general term for a break or pause.

intermission

Suggests a break in a longer activity, often used in theatrical or performance contexts.

breather

Implies a short rest to recover or relax.

pause for refreshments

Highlights the act of consuming beverages or snacks during the break.

FAQs

How to use "coffee break" in a sentence?

You can use "coffee break" to describe a short rest period during work. For example, "Let's take a "coffee break" before the next meeting".

What can I say instead of "coffee break"?

You can use alternatives like "tea break" (if tea is the beverage), "short recess", or "brief respite", depending on the specific context.

Is "coffee break" formal or informal?

"Coffee break" is generally considered a neutral term suitable for both formal and informal contexts. It's commonly used in professional settings as well as casual conversations.

What's the purpose of a "coffee break"?

The purpose of a "coffee break" is to provide a short period of rest and relaxation during work or study, often involving the consumption of coffee or other refreshments. It helps to improve focus and productivity.