for a recess

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "for a recess" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when referring to a break or pause in an activity, often in the context of meetings, classes, or legislative sessions. Example: "The committee decided to take a break for a recess before continuing with the discussions."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Academia

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

52 human-written examples

His lawyer soon asked for a recess.

The New York Times

Ryan called for a recess and had Miller removed for the second time Monday.

The Washington Post

"It's very troubling". Flustered lawyers for the company ask for a recess to regroup.

The New York Times

At last, he called for a recess, and Morsi and the others were escorted out of the cage.

The New Yorker

Matthew said that the judge looked bewildered — the defendant hadn't even shown up in court — and called for a recess.

The New Yorker

Colonel Osborn then asked him to explain his defense, and Major Hasan asked for a recess to gather his thoughts.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

8 human-written examples

There should also be a minimum of 1 hour for a recess-like break, outside whenever possible, which gives your child an opportunity to recharge.

WikiHow

Choose a bulb for a recessed can light.

WikiHow

Most people choose a halogen, compact fluorescent, or incandescent light bulb for a recessed can fixture.

WikiHow

With the council about to break for a summer recess, the repeal legislation will not advance until the fall.

The Washington Post

And the deeper the recess, the higher the SiGe height for a fixed recess width of 96.3 nm as is shown in Fig. 3.

Journal of Theoretical and Applied Physics

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "for a recess" in formal writing, ensure the context clearly indicates the type of break being referred to, such as a legislative recess or a court recess. Consider alternatives like "break" or "pause" if a more general term is appropriate.

Common error

Avoid using "for a recess" when referring to informal or casual breaks. While technically correct, it's more fitting for structured environments like legal proceedings or legislative sessions. In casual conversation, "for a break" or "for a pause" would be more appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "for a recess" functions primarily as a prepositional phrase, often used adverbially to indicate the purpose or reason for a temporary interruption. As Ludwig AI confirms, this usage is grammatically correct and well-established.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

55%

Academia

15%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Wiki

10%

Science

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "for a recess" is a grammatically sound and commonly used prepositional phrase that indicates the purpose of a temporary break in a formal setting. As confirmed by Ludwig AI, this expression is most frequently found in News & Media, Academia, and Encyclopedia contexts. When using "for a recess", writers should be mindful of the formality and ensure it aligns with the overall tone. More general options like "for a break" or "for a pause" may be more appropriate in less formal scenarios.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

for a break

This alternative offers a more general term for a pause or rest.

for a pause

This term emphasizes a temporary cessation of activity.

for an intermission

This phrase is often used in the context of performances or events, indicating a scheduled break.

for a temporary halt

This alternative highlights the transient nature of the interruption.

for a suspension

This suggests a more formal or official interruption.

for a respite

This term implies a period of relief or rest from something difficult or stressful.

for a breather

This is an informal way to refer to a short break to relax or recover.

for a time out

This phrase suggests a temporary removal from an activity, often used in the context of conflict or discipline.

for a short adjournment

This is a more formal term for postponing a meeting or session.

for a temporary cessation

This option is a formal way to refer to the stopping of something.

FAQs

How is "for a recess" typically used in legal contexts?

In legal contexts, "for a recess" often refers to a temporary break in court proceedings, requested by lawyers or called by the judge to allow for consultation, gathering of thoughts, or addressing unforeseen issues. The phrase signals a formal, often brief, interruption in the trial or hearing.

What's the difference between "for a break" and "for a recess"?

"For a break" is a general term for a pause in any activity, while "for a recess" usually implies a more formal or structured interruption, such as in a legal or legislative setting. A recess often has a specific purpose and a defined duration.

When is it appropriate to use "for a recess" in a sentence?

It's appropriate to use "for a recess" when referring to a temporary interruption in a formal meeting, court session, legislative session, or any structured activity where a formal break is called. It suggests more than a casual pause; it's an official cessation of proceedings.

What are some synonyms "for "for a recess"" in formal writing?

In formal writing, you can use synonyms such as "for an adjournment", "for a suspension", or "for an intermission" to convey the idea of a temporary break in proceedings. The choice depends on the specific context and the formality level desired.