# ad break

CEFR B1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/ad-break
Updated: 2026-08-14

## Definition

the period during a television show, radio program, or online video when advertisements are shown. These are the commercial breaks you see between parts of a movie or series.

For teachers: a scheduled interruption in a broadcast, such as on television or radio, or in an online stream, during which advertisements are shown

## Examples

- Let's get snacks during the ad break.
- Many streaming services offer cheaper plans that include several short ad breaks per hour.
- To retain viewers who might change channels, broadcasters strategically place the shortest ad break just before the show's dramatic climax.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.