long break

USAGE SUMMARY

"long break" is a correct and usable expression in written English.
You can use it to refer to a period of time that is significantly longer than a regular break. For example: "During the summer holidays, I plan to take a long break from work."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

57 human-written examples

"It's a long break.

The Guardian - Sport

APOLOGIES for the long break in blogging.

The Economist

The long break Thursday did not help.

The New York Times - Sports

So the narrative has a long break.

The New York Times - Arts

The long break is nearly over.

The Guardian - Opinion

So, they took a long break.

The New York Times

I'm now going to take a long, long break.

The Guardian - Film

I don't mind a break, a very long break".

The New York Times - Arts

"That was another reason for the long break.

The Guardian - Music

"It's just that we've gotten together after a long break".

The New York Times - Arts

Exhausted from lugging the carryall, YoungThing takes a long break, doubtful that he is on course.

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "long break" to clearly indicate a significant duration of rest or interruption. This phrase is suitable for both formal and informal contexts.

Common error

When using "long break", be mindful that 'long' is relative. If the duration is critical, specify the length (e.g., "a three-month break") to avoid misinterpretations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "long break" primarily functions as a noun phrase, where "long" modifies the noun "break". It signifies an extended period of rest or cessation from activity. As Ludwig AI confirms, it’s a correct and usable expression. The examples from Ludwig further showcase this function in various contexts, describing extended periods of inactivity or leave.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

56%

Science

23%

Wiki

12%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Reference

2%

Encyclopedias

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "long break" is a common and grammatically correct noun phrase used to describe an extended period of rest or interruption. As Ludwig AI confirms, the expression is widely accepted and used. Predominantly found in News & Media, but also present in Science and Wiki sources, its neutral register makes it versatile for various contexts. When using the phrase, clarify the duration if precision is important, and consider alternatives like "extended hiatus" or "prolonged pause" depending on the desired formality. The numerous examples provided by Ludwig demonstrate its widespread application and clear understanding across different domains.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

extended hiatus

Replaces "break" with a more formal term "hiatus", emphasizing a planned pause.

prolonged pause

Substitutes "break" with "pause", highlighting the temporary cessation of activity.

lengthy intermission

Uses "intermission" instead of "break", often implying a structured or scheduled pause.

extended leave

Replaces "break" with "leave", suggesting an authorized absence, often from work or duties.

substantial respite

Employs "respite", which emphasizes the relief and rest provided by the break.

significant downtime

Uses "downtime", typically used in technical contexts, to mean a period of inactivity.

long vacation

Specifies the break as a "vacation", emphasizing leisure and travel.

drawn-out interruption

Highlights the disruptive aspect of the break using "interruption", suggesting it may be unplanned.

protracted recess

Uses "recess" which, similar to "intermission", implies a structured or scheduled pause but is typically used in school or legislative contexts.

extended time off

Directly states the absence from work or other obligations.

FAQs

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

You can use "long break" to describe an extended period away from work, studies, or any regular activity. For example, "After years of constant work, she decided to take a "long break" to travel the world".

What are some alternatives to "long break"?

Depending on the context, you could use phrases like "extended hiatus", "prolonged pause", or "extended leave".

Is it better to say "long break" or "lengthy break"?

Both "long break" and "lengthy break" are acceptable and largely interchangeable. "Long break" is slightly more common, but the choice often comes down to stylistic preference.

What's the difference between a "long break" and a "short break"?

A "long break" implies a significant period of rest or interruption, while a "short break" suggests a brief pause. The perceived length depends on the context, but the distinction is generally clear.