English Reference
Idiom idiom

physical break


A short break in a meeting or in a classroom setting, intended to improve attention by giving people a chance to move around.

Meaning adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.


SIMPLE

“We need a quick physical break to stretch our legs.”

CONTEXTUAL

“The teacher noticed the students losing focus, so she called for a five-minute physical break.”

COMPLEX

“Recognizing that the long afternoon session had exhausted the participants, the facilitator wisely scheduled a brief physical break to restore their energy and concentration.”


Related idioms8entries
  1. 01

    all bedlam breaks loose

    The situation becomes chaotic or characterized by conflict or rage.

  2. 02

    all hell breaks loose

    The situation becomes chaotic or characterized by conflict or rage.

  3. 03

    big break

    A breakthrough, especially the first big hit of a previously unknown performer or performers in the entertainment industry.

  4. 04

    break a leg

    Good luck!; Do your best!; Said to someone wishing they perform well in a theatrical production or comparable endeavor.

  5. 05

    break a sweat

    To put effort into something.

  6. 06

    break cover

    To disclose one's real thoughts and intentions.

  7. 07

    break down

    To give in or give up: relent, concede, surrender.

  8. 08

    break even

    To neither gain nor lose money.

Last updated August 10, 2026