breathing spell
- noun
- /ˈbriːðɪŋ spɛl/
:
respiro
- Such a breathing spell is very much in order for America's dealings with the nations of the Islamic world.
Examples
-
During the meeting, we had a brief breathing spell where we could discuss our ideas freely.
-
"It's a good breathing spell before the season.
Fiction book (1991) -
We now have a breathing spell we need badly.
-
And she was thankful for the breathing spell, for all three of them.
Fiction book (1993) -
Give yourselves a breathing spell up there on the plantation.
-
The stay gives the debtor a "breathing spell" to effect repayment or reorganization and thus, an opportunity for a "fresh start."
Academic text (1993) -
After a long week of work, I took a breathing spell to recharge for the weekend.
-
The teacher announced a short breathing spell in between classes to give students a chance to relax.
Synonyms
31
3.4
A short rest to recover energy
25
7.2
A short break from something difficult or unpleasant
1
3.5
A short time to rest or think when you feel pressure
1
3.0
A short break to breathe and rest
1
4.3
A short rest to get energy before continuing a difficult task
A short time to rest and feel less stressed
Antonyms
How Long
- Formal
45
8.5
17
6.8
25
7.2
∞
1.0
192
1.0
Surface Forms
Morphology
The compound is directly compositional: 'breathing' evokes taking a breath or temporary relief and 'spell' denotes a short period, so the sense 'a short period of rest or relief' follows from the parts. This 'moment to breathe' metaphor is common in English and in other languages, so a B1 learner who knows both constituents is likely to infer the meaning.
Etymology
Breathing spell comes from the image of someone stopping to take a breath during hard work, because breathing is taking air and a spell once meant a short time. So, it now means 'a short period of rest or relief' from work or difficulty.