change of pace

American  

[cheynj uhv peys] / ˈtʃeɪndʒ əv ˈpeɪs /

noun

1. temporary shift or variation in a normal routine or regular pattern of activity.

   Reading a mystery novel has been a real change of pace for me.

2. Baseball: Older Use.  changeup.

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change of pace Idioms  

1. A shift in normal routine, a variation in usual activities or pattern, as in She's smiling in that one photo, just for a change of pace, or After six hours at my desk I need a change of pace, so I'm going for a swim. This term originated in a number of sports where strategy can involve altering the speed of, for example, a pitched or struck ball or a horse's gait. By the mid-1900s it was being transferred to other enterprises.

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Etymology

Origin of change of pace

First recorded in 1650–60; 1865–70 change of pace for def. 2

Example Sentences

She felt the minor would offer a good change of pace from her other, “intensive” coursework.

From Los Angeles Times

You seem to be having fun and even get a bit goofy on the show, which is a nice change of pace from some of these action films.

From Salon

The comedian kicks it off with good news — “I got married. I know! It’s nice” — and then promises viewers a change of pace from previous sets: “This is going to be a feel-good show because I believe I owe you one.”

From Seattle Times

The change of pace was a good idea, as a nonstop mosh pit can be dangerous, exhausting and, well, boring.

From Washington Post

A first course of sliced raw scallops arranged with juicy pink grapefruit, toasted split hazelnuts and diced white asparagus compelled me to eat it leisurely, too, partly out of admiration for the refreshing change of pace from all the crudo out there.

From Washington Post