temporary break

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "temporary break" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a short period of interruption or pause in an activity or process. Example: "After a temporary break, the team resumed their project with renewed energy."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Wiki

Formal & Business

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

48 human-written examples

Aresco looked forward to a temporary break.

The New York Times - Sports

There's the high-cost natural gas tax exemption, originally a temporary break designed to spur production.

The New York Times

It granted me a sort of temporary break from the reality I was in".

The New York Times

Some government workers and others who do not contribute to Social Security will not get this temporary break.

The New York Times

The site will also let you take a temporary break from the relationship by letting you deactivate your account.

The New York Times - Tech

But while Okereke's comments suggest a temporary break – recalling bassist Gordon Moakes's "baby hiatus" – Tong's doubts seem to go deeper.

The Guardian - Music

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

11 human-written examples

Washington could send taxpayers rebate checks or give businesses temporary breaks for new investments in equipment.

The New York Times

It should, for example, ensure that there is greater access to counseling and respite care to give spouses and relatives temporary breaks to avoid burnout.

The New York Times

These were temporary breaks in the general pattern of the game, though, since Celtic were comfortable while they dominated the ball.

BBC

After releasing their remix album This Is the Remix in 2002, the group announced their temporary break-up to pursue solo projects.

Wikipedia

However, following a temporary break-down in negotiations after the unilateral release of 25,000 anti-communist Chinese and North Korean prisoners of war by South Korean President Syngman Rhee, the Chinese had renewed large-scale attacks on 24 June.

Wikipedia

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "temporary break", ensure the context clearly indicates what is being paused and for how long. Be specific to avoid ambiguity. For example, instead of saying "We took a temporary break", specify "We took a temporary break from the project to address urgent issues".

Common error

Avoid using "temporary break" when the intention is to describe a permanent end to something. "Temporary" implies a return to the original state, so ensure this aligns with the actual situation.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "temporary break" primarily functions as a noun phrase. It acts as a subject, object, or complement within a sentence, denoting a limited period of cessation from an activity or situation. As Ludwig AI states, it is grammatically correct and usable in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

60%

Wiki

15%

Formal & Business

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

7%

Science

5%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "temporary break" is a grammatically sound and frequently used noun phrase indicating a short-term interruption. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is correct and usable in written English. It serves to communicate a pause that is not permanent, suitable across various registers, especially in news and media, as well as formal business contexts. When using this phrase, ensure clarity regarding what is being paused and for how long to avoid ambiguity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

short hiatus

Emphasizes a pause or gap in an activity, similar to a break, but may imply a more planned or deliberate interruption.

brief respite

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

short intermission

Suggests a planned pause in a performance, event, or activity.

passing pause

Highlights the transient nature of the interruption, indicating it's very short-lived.

momentary recess

Suggests a formal or official pause, often used in structured settings.

fleeting interruption

Focuses on the sudden and brief disruption of something.

transient cessation

A more formal way to describe a temporary stopping of an activity.

short leave

Implies a short period of absence from duty or work.

quick breather

Informal phrase suggesting a brief pause to rest or recover.

temporary suspension

Indicates a short-term halting of something, often implying a more formal setting.

FAQs

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

You can use "temporary break" to describe a short pause or interruption in an activity. For example, "The band announced a "short hiatus" after their world tour", or "The negotiations are on a "passing pause" while both parties reconsider their positions".

What's the difference between "temporary break" and "permanent break"?

"Temporary break" implies a return to the activity or situation after a short pause, while "permanent break" signifies a complete and lasting end. A "short hiatus" is expected to end, unlike a permanent one.

Which is more formal, "temporary break" or "short intermission"?

"Short intermission" might be perceived as slightly more formal, particularly when referring to events like concerts or performances. However, "temporary break" is suitable in most formal contexts, especially in business or academic settings. A "short intermission" typically has a specific purpose, whereas a "temporary break" can be more general.

What are some alternatives to "temporary break" that I can use in my writing?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as ""short hiatus"", "brief respite", or ""passing pause"". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.