Break for Meaning in English
expression
Definition
'Break for' can mean to pause what you're doing in order to do something else (such as 'break for lunch'), or to suddenly move quickly toward something (such as 'break for the door').
Usage & Nuances
'Break for' plus a noun is common: 'break for lunch', 'break for coffee'. It is also used with urgency, e.g., 'break for the exit' means to move quickly toward that place. Context determines if it means 'pause' or 'move suddenly'. Rarely used as a standalone verb.
Example Sentences
Let's break for lunch at noon.
basic
The class will break for a short break every hour.
basic
They broke for coffee during the meeting.
basic
When the alarm rang, everyone broke for the exit.
natural
As soon as the rain stopped, the kids broke for the playground.
natural
If you need a break, just say you want to break for five minutes.
natural