breathing space

[bree-thing speys]

noun

1. Also called breathing spell. an opportunity to rest or think.

2. sufficient space in which to move, work, etc..

   The train was so crowded that there was hardly breathing space.

breathing space

noun

1. enough area to permit freedom of movement

   the country gives us some breathing space

2. a pause for rest, etc

   a coffee break was their only breathing space

Word History and Origins

Origin of breathing space¹

First recorded in 1640–50

Idioms and Phrases

Room or time in which to breathe, as in In that crowded hall, there was hardly any breathing space . Previously this term was put as breathing room . [Mid-1600s]

A rest or pause. For example, I can't work at this all day; I need some breathing space . This usage replaced the earlier breathing while . [Mid-1600s]

Related Words

• breather 
• breathing room www.thesaurus.com