prolonged break

USAGE SUMMARY

'prolonged break' is correct and usable in written English.
You can use this phrase to refer to a longer-than-normal break from something. For example, "After the new teacher was hired, the students were given a prolonged break from having to memorize vocabulary words."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

13 human-written examples

Although she needed to overcome her drug addiction, the prolonged break she took from acting at the height of her fame seems consistent with a taste for self-sabotage that she freely owns.

The Guardian - Film

Following a prolonged break, the ex-Liverpool and Aston Villa player is eager for more work.

BBC

As for the rest of the hardware, Apple's souped up that as well, after its prolonged break.

TechCrunch

Speciation, or the origination of a new species from a preexisting species, is caused by a prolonged break in genetic exchange (interbreeding) between populations within a species.

Evolution: Education and Outreach

Understandable given the prolonged break Kings Of Leon have been on that music would be made in some capacity by some members of the band.

BBC

But with talent, determination, and persistence and given the right kind of support resuming a scientific career is possible, even after a prolonged break.

Science Magazine

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

47 human-written examples

I now realize that I am lucky enough to have a few exceptional hometown relationships that have transcended large distances and prolonged breaks in time.

Forbes

The addition of silica initially lowers the early part of the stress-strain curve but prolongs breaking to greater strains.

Polymer Testing

The trial, expected to last two years, has already been prolonged by breaks, which doctors ordered to give Mr Milosevic more rest.

The Guardian

The delays are said to have been prolonged by breaks for Christmas and Chinese new year but sources said EDF was close to reaching a final legal deal that both sides can sign off on.

The Guardian - Business

The absence of prolonged holiday breaks in Bridge Year service assignments along with the overall length of your stay will afford you the opportunity to integrate more fully in the life of your host family and local community, as well as to gain a much deeper understanding of local culture and customs.

Princeton University

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "prolonged break", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being paused or interrupted. For example, specify "a prolonged break from work" or "a prolonged break in negotiations".

Common error

Avoid using "prolonged break" when you actually mean a temporary fix or a short-term solution to a long-standing problem. "Prolonged break" implies a significant pause, not a quick patch.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "prolonged break" functions as a noun phrase, where "prolonged" is an adjective modifying the noun "break". It typically acts as a subject, object, or complement within a sentence, indicating a significant pause or interruption. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in various contexts.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

41%

Science

30%

Wiki

11%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Encyclopedias

2%

Academia

2%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "prolonged break" is a common and grammatically correct way to describe a significant pause or interruption, as confirmed by Ludwig AI. It appears frequently in news, science, and wiki contexts. While alternatives like "extended hiatus" or "lengthy intermission" exist, "prolonged break" remains a versatile choice. To use it effectively, clarify what is being paused and avoid confusing it with temporary solutions. Remember that while the phrase is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, the surrounding language determines the overall tone.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

extended hiatus

Replaces "break" with "hiatus", emphasizing a temporary suspension or interruption.

lengthy intermission

Uses "intermission" instead of "break", often implying a pause during a performance or event.

protracted absence

Focuses on the state of being away for an extended period, rather than the break itself.

long-term leave

Specifies a formal leave, such as from work or school, that is for a significant duration.

extended respite

Substitutes "break" with "respite", suggesting a period of rest and relief.

drawn-out pause

Replaces "prolonged" with "drawn-out", emphasizing the gradual and extended nature of the pause.

considerable recess

Uses "recess" to denote a formal break or adjournment, often in an academic or legal context.

sustained interruption

Highlights the ongoing and continuous nature of the interruption.

long break

Simplifies the phrase by omitting "prolonged", still conveying a break of significant duration. However the semantic similarity is much more distant.

significant downtime

Emphasizes the period of inactivity or reduced activity.

FAQs

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

You can use "prolonged break" to describe an extended pause or interruption in an activity or routine. For example, "After a "prolonged break" due to injury, the athlete returned to competition" or "The project experienced a "prolonged break" because of funding issues".

What are some alternatives to "prolonged break"?

Depending on the context, you could use alternatives like "extended hiatus", "lengthy intermission", or "protracted absence". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "prolonged break" formal or informal?

"Prolonged break" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. The formality of the surrounding language will determine the overall tone. It's appropriate for news articles, academic papers, and casual conversations alike.

What's the difference between "prolonged break" and "long break"?

While both refer to a pause or interruption, "prolonged break" emphasizes the extended duration of the break more strongly than simply saying "long break". "Prolonged" suggests the break is noticeably longer than usual.