breathing space

noun

: some time in which to recover, get organized, or get going

called also breathing room, breathing spell

Examples of breathing space in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Twelve acres of greenery provide those inside with a much-sought-after breathing space and a sense of poetry. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 11 Apr. 2026 As with any actor, Pascal requires a good break from big projects to give him and the audience some breathing space. — Sergio Pereira, Space.com, 18 May 2026 All of this buys Lululemon breathing space to set out its plan for investors and enact a turnaround. — Pamela N. Danziger, Forbes.com, 27 May 2026 Lawmakers often intentionally craft funding bills to expire on Fridays to give themselves some breathing space to finalize a deal before the start of the work week. — CBS News, 31 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for breathing space

Word History

First Known Use

1545, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of breathing space was in 1545

Rhymes for breathing space

See All Rhymes for breathing space

Browse Nearby Words

breathing mark
breathing space
breathing tube
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Breathing space.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/breathing%20space. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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