breathing space

American  

[bree-thing speys] / ˈbri ðɪŋ ˌspeɪs /

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.

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breathing space British  

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

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breathing space Idioms  

1. 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]

2. 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]

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Etymology

Origin of breathing space

First recorded in 1640–50

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

breathing space

They must also be taking note of the breathing space China has given itself by electrifying its transport fleet and diversifying its energy sources.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Jul. 29, 2026

"Falling inflation is news families want to hear but there is much more to do to give people the breathing space they need," said newly appointed finance minister John Healey.

From Barron's ● Jul. 22, 2026

Burnham promised in his opening speech in Downing Street that he wanted to give people what he called "breathing space" to "help with the cost of living."

From BBC ● Jul. 21, 2026

There was also a promise to do something about the cost of living, with more detail tomorrow on the "breathing space" he is offering hard-pressed families.

From BBC ● Jul. 20, 2026

To gain some breathing space, Torak dodged behind the fire.

From "Wolf Brother" by Michelle Paver

Related Words

• breather
• breathing room