breathing space
noun
Also called breathing spell. an opportunity to rest or think.
sufficient space in which to move, work, etc.: The train was so crowded that there was hardly breathing space.
Nearby words
breathed, breather, breathing, breathing bag, breathing reserve, breathing space, breathless, breathtaking, breathy, breccia, brecciate
Origin of breathing space
First recorded in 1640–50
Dictionary.com Unabridged
Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2019
British Dictionary definitions for breathing space
breathing space
noun
enough area to permit freedom of movementthe country gives us some breathing space
a pause for rest, etca coffee break was their only breathing space
Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition
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Idioms and Phrases with breathing space
breathing space
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]
The American Heritage® Idioms Dictionary
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