take five

Idioms  

1. Relax, take some time off from what one is doing, as in We've been at it long enough; let's take five. This term is short for “take five minutes off.” [Slang; first half of 1900s] For a synonym, see take a break.

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Example Sentences

See Examples For:

take five

The attack caused "extensive damage" that Qatar's state energy company said could cost $20 billion a year in lost revenue and take five years to repair.

From Barron's ● Mar. 20, 2026

"It used to take five years to grow back, now after three years you can pick it again."

From BBC ● Mar. 8, 2026

Second, use the “5-5-5” breathing method: When you’re stressed in the middle of a trade, close your eyes and take five deep breaths, five times, holding each for five seconds.

From MarketWatch ● Jan. 28, 2026

"This for me is re-refereeing the game. They are both going at it. It might be right, but I don't think we should be taking away goals for this. Why take five minutes?"

From BBC ● Jan. 13, 2026

So we each take five, leaving seven, which will never divide equally.

From "Catching Fire" by Suzanne Collins

Related Words

• breathe
• lean
• lie down
• relax
• sit down
• stretch out