recess

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "recess" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to a break or pause in an activity, often in the context of school or meetings. Example: "The students were excited for recess, as it meant they could play outside for a while."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Facebook Twitter Google plus Share Share this post Facebook Twitter Google plus close 12.57pm ET17 57 Just two questions left before recess, Hensarling advises.

The Guardian - Business

When MPs return from recess, they will scrutinise the government's plans for the green investment bank (GIB) under the enterprise and regulatory reform bill.

The Guardian

By that time, the Senate may have passed the short-term extension to the Patriot Act powers, but members of the House of Representatives will have left Washington for its Memorial Day recess and will not be able to vote on it until they return on 1 June.

The Guardian

Corker said the bill will be put to a committee vote on 14 April, giving the Obama administration the two-week Easter recess to persuade Democrats not to support the legislation.

The Guardian

Paul spent a total of 10 hours and 30 minutes on Wednesday calling for an end to the National Security Agency's dragnet surveillance tactics, eating up one of just three legislative days remaining before lawmakers go on recess till 1 June – the same day that key provisions of the Patriot Act are due to expire.

The Guardian

Senate leader Mitch McConnell had been hoping to get unanimous consent to push through an extension of the controversial Patriot Act for either one or two weeks to allow senators to return home for Memorial Day recess.

The Guardian

While the claimed legal authority for the program, Section 215 of the Patriot Act, expires on 1 June, the memo notes that the next 90-day order from a secret surveillance court necessary to gather the bulk data must be filed by Friday – after the House of Representatives, which has already voted overwhelmingly to stop the program, is in recess.

The Guardian

But as parliament prepares to return for four weeks of sittings before the long winter recess, details are emerging about the impact of some of its central policies.

The Guardian

Corker – who was not among the 47 Republican signatories of a controversial open letter last month – said his bill would be put to a committee vote on 14 April, giving the Obama administration the two-week Easter recess to persuade Democrats not to support it.

The Guardian

Parliament is going to prorogue (go into recess at the end of the session) shortly, and it will not meet until the Queen's Speech on Wednesday 4 June.

The Guardian

Republican leadership was hoping for a short-term extension of the Patriot Act which would push debate into early June, once the Senate returns from its Memorial Day recess.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "recess" to describe physical indentations or insets in architecture or design.

Common error

Avoid using "recess" interchangeably with "recession" in economic contexts. "Recess" refers to a temporary break, while "recession" describes an economic downturn.

Linguistic Context

The primary grammatical function of "recess" is as a noun, denoting a break, pause, or interval. It can also function as a verb, meaning to take a break or adjourn. Ludwig provides numerous examples demonstrating these uses.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Formal & Business

25%

Science

5%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Wiki

2%

Reference

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The word "recess" is a versatile term with multiple meanings, primarily used to describe a break or pause in an activity, as affirmed by Ludwig. It functions as both a noun and a verb, appearing frequently in news and formal contexts. While grammatically correct and widely used, it's essential to differentiate "recess" from "recession" to avoid confusion. When seeking alternatives, consider "break time", "intermission", or "pause", depending on the specific context. Ludwig’s examples showcase the term's prevalence in discussions related to government, education, and general breaks from routine.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

break time

Refers specifically to a scheduled break, often in a school or work setting.

intermission

Implies a temporary cessation, particularly in a performance or activity.

time out

Suggests a pause for rest or reflection, or as a form of discipline.

pause

A general term for a temporary stop in an action or process.

respite

Indicates a short period of rest or relief from something difficult or unpleasant.

downtime

Refers to a period when one is not actively working or engaged in a task.

holiday

Suggests a more extended break, often associated with celebrations or traditions.

vacation

Implies a longer period of absence from work or school, typically for leisure.

interval

Indicates a period of time between two events or points in a process.

lull

Suggests a temporary period of calm or inactivity in a situation.

FAQs

How is "recess" used in a sentence?

The term "recess" can refer to a break from school or a formal meeting. For example, "The students were excited for recess" or "The court will be in recess until tomorrow morning".

What can I say instead of "recess"?

Alternatives include "break time", "intermission", "pause", or "respite", depending on the specific context.

What is a "recess appointment"?

A "recess appointment" is when a president appoints someone to a government position while the Senate is not in session and unable to confirm the appointment. This appointment is temporary.

Which is correct, "recess" or "recession"?

"Recess" and "recession" have different meanings. "Recess" refers to a temporary break or pause, while "recession" describes a period of economic decline. Avoid confusing the two terms in writing.