breathing space

American  

[bree-thing spays] / 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

Chancellor John Healey said the government would look to "provide some breathing space" for households in the Budget.

From BBC ● Oct. 13, 2026

He said his Budget "will build on this approach with fiscal discipline helping to deliver economic resilience" and give people "breathing space".

From BBC ● Oct. 11, 2026

"We're looking at any measure that can give people breathing space, that can take the pressure off," he said.

From BBC ● Oct. 3, 2026

The Budget would "give families and businesses a bit of breathing space", the chancellor said.

From BBC ● Sep. 28, 2026

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

From "Wolf Brother" by Michelle Paver

Related Words

• breather
• breathing room