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

Damage to QatarEnergy LNG, a key helium byproduct source, could take five years to repair, impacting critical tech and medical sectors.

From Barron's • Apr. 13, 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

I always manage to make a trip to the bathroom take five minutes.

From "It’s Kind of a Funny Story" by Ned Vizzini

Related Words

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