could use a break

USAGE SUMMARY

"could use a break" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to indicate that someone is feeling tired or overwhelmed and would benefit from a rest or break from the activity they are currently involved in. For example, "I've been working on this project all day, and I think I could use a break."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Sports

General Conversation

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

32 human-written examples

The emus could use a break.

The New York Times

Standard & Poor's could use a break.

The New York Times

Erdos could use a break.

The New York Times - Sports

His opponents, of course, could use a break as well.

The New York Times - Sports

"Actually," he said, "I think I could use a break.

The New Yorker

My back could use a break from carrying all our overnight gear.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

28 human-written examples

He could use a better break than "Ellen," and so could we.

The New York Times - Arts

My sense was that by the end of the story he could use a little break.

The New Yorker

Nordic noir may not be out, but after several years of chilly, chunky-knit dominance, aficionados of European crime drama could use a Mediterranean break.

The Guardian - Film

I worked up the courage to say, "Guys, in the near but not immediate future I could use a bathroom break".

The New Yorker

If you're reading this at your desk right now, chances are your hips and back could use a little break.

Huffington Post

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "could use a break" to express a need for rest or relief in a variety of contexts, from personal situations to professional settings. It's a versatile phrase that can be used to suggest a short pause or a longer period of time off.

Common error

While "could use a break" is a useful phrase, avoid overusing it in your writing. Vary your language by using synonyms or more specific expressions to describe the need for rest or relief. For example, instead of saying someone "could use a break", you might say they "need to rest", "require some downtime", or "are feeling burnt out".

Linguistic Context

The phrase "could use a break" functions as an idiomatic expression used to indicate that someone or something would benefit from a period of rest or relief. As Ludwig AI explains, it suggests a need to pause or take time off from an activity or situation.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

40%

Sports

20%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Academia

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "could use a break" is a common and versatile expression used to indicate a need for rest or relief. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and widespread usability. Its neutral register makes it appropriate for both formal and informal contexts. While simple, its effectiveness lies in its ability to convey a clear and relatable message about feeling tired or overwhelmed. When writing, it's useful to remember the phrase is not limited to human context, but it can be extended to situations or places, in this way you can emphasize your message.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

need a breather

Implies a need for a short pause to recover.

need to rest

Focuses directly on the physical need for rest.

would benefit from a pause

Highlights the positive impact of a temporary stop.

require some downtime

Implies a need for relaxation and reduced activity.

require a moment to recharge

Focuses on regaining energy after depletion.

deserve a respite

Suggests a right to a temporary period of relief.

want a change of pace

Expresses a desire to switch from the current activity.

am feeling burnt out

Expresses a state of emotional, physical, and mental exhaustion.

crave a temporary escape

Suggests a longing to get away from the current situation.

yearn for some relaxation

Conveys a strong desire for peace and quiet.

FAQs

How can I use "could use a break" in a sentence?

You can use "could use a break" to express that someone is tired or overwhelmed and would benefit from a rest. For example, "After working all day, I "could use a break"".

What are some alternatives to "could use a break"?

Some alternatives to "could use a break" include "need to rest", "require some downtime", or "am feeling burnt out".

When is it appropriate to use "could use a break"?

It's appropriate to use "could use a break" in situations where someone is showing signs of fatigue, stress, or overwork. It can be used in both formal and informal contexts.

Is "could use a break" a formal or informal expression?

"Could use a break" is generally considered a neutral expression that can be used in both formal and informal settings. However, consider the context and audience when choosing your language. In some formal situations, a more precise or professional term might be preferred.