partial reprieve

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "partial reprieve" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts where someone is granted a temporary relief or suspension from a punishment or obligation, but not a complete release. Example: "The judge granted a partial reprieve, allowing the defendant to serve the first half of their sentence under house arrest."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

9 human-written examples

Concessionaires and businesses near arenas that depend on the N.B.A. will get a partial reprieve.

The New York Times - Sports

(It did leave room for a partial reprieve for a clinic in El Paso, though not for one in McAllen).

The New Yorker

Fewer than half of the schools that appealed for waivers got them, and many that sought full exemptions got only a partial reprieve.

The New York Times

Ms. Lapetina and her allies received a partial reprieve when the city rezoned about 120 blocks on the eastern edge of Bensonhurst.

The New York Times

But an outcry from community leaders, students and alumni, as well as from employers and industry representatives who hire from Smith, gave the school a partial reprieve.

The New York Times

The mayor also dropped his attempt to suspend recycling as a cost-saving measure, in favor of a partial reprieve and a task force to figure out ways to make the system profitable.

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

51 human-written examples

Peacocks, La Senza and Game were given last-minute reprieves in partial buyouts that allowed a small number of stores to remain open, but all four chains have seen their presence on the high street severely depleted.

Independent

Google's applications suffer a partial failure, a technical problem in Pennsylvania gives taxpayers a day's reprieve and over 700 American Airlines flights are canceled after a computer system fails.

The New York Times

No reprieve?

The New York Times - Travel

Such reprieve!

The New Yorker

No reprieve was forthcoming.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "partial reprieve" when you want to emphasize that the relief is not complete or permanent.

Common error

Avoid using "partial reprieve" when the situation requires a long-term or complete solution. This phrase signals only a temporary fix, which may not be appropriate for addressing fundamental issues.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "partial reprieve" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. It denotes a temporary easing or suspension of a burden, penalty, or obligation, as confirmed by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Science

10%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "partial reprieve" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase that signifies a temporary easing or suspension of a burden or obligation. As Ludwig's analysis shows, the phrase is most commonly found in News & Media contexts. The sources indicate a neutral tone and a clear communicative purpose: informing the audience about a limited or temporary relief. When using "partial reprieve", be mindful of the temporary nature it implies and choose it when this aspect is crucial to the message.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

temporary respite

Focuses on the temporary nature of the break from difficulty.

limited suspension

Highlights the restriction or boundary to the break.

brief postponement

Emphasizes the delaying aspect of an action or event.

short-term relief

Stresses the immediate but not lasting alleviation of a problem.

temporary stay of execution

Specifically implies a delay in carrying out a sentence or decision.

mitigated penalty

Indicates a reduction or lessening of a punishment.

conditional pardon

Suggests forgiveness under specific terms or limitations.

interim delay

Focuses on the time-bound aspect of the suspension, indicating an action between two points in time.

transient alleviation

Highlights the fleeting nature of the relief provided.

provisional deferment

Implies a temporary and conditional postponement of an obligation.

FAQs

How can I use "partial reprieve" in a sentence?

You can use "partial reprieve" to describe a situation where someone or something receives a temporary break from a difficult or unpleasant situation. For example, "The new regulations offer a "partial reprieve" to small businesses struggling with rising costs".

What are some alternatives to saying "partial reprieve"?

Alternatives to "partial reprieve" include "temporary respite", "limited suspension", or "short-term relief". The best choice depends on the specific context.

Is it correct to say "partial reprieve"?

Yes, "partial reprieve" is a grammatically correct and commonly used phrase. Ludwig AI confirms its validity based on numerous examples from reputable sources.

What does "partial reprieve" mean?

"Partial reprieve" means a temporary suspension or relief from a negative situation or obligation, but not a complete or permanent one. It implies that the problem or obligation will likely return or continue in the future.