respite
RES-pit
/ˈrɛspɪt/
A short period of rest or relief from something difficult or unpleasant.
Often implies a temporary break from stress, pain, or difficulty. It's usually short-lived and provides a much-needed pause.
The story behind the word. The word 'respite' comes from the Old French 'respit', meaning 'delay' or 'postponement'. This, in turn, traces back to the Latin 'respectus', which meant 'a looking back' or 'regard'. The idea evolved from a delay in punishment or obligation to a pause or relief from any difficulty. It's that moment when you can finally 'look back' and catch your breath.
Word relationships
- break: More general and can be for any reason; 'respite' specifically implies relief from difficulty.
- lull: A temporary interval of quiet or lack of activity.
- continuation: The state of remaining in existence or operation.
- stress: A state of mental or emotional strain or tension resulting from adverse or demanding circumstances.
Commonly confused with
- vacation: 'Respite' is a short, often unplanned, relief from difficulty; 'vacation' is a longer, planned period of leisure.
Collocations
- brief respite
- welcome respite
- respite care
- offer respite
Example sentences
- "The sudden downpour offered a brief respite from the oppressive summer heat." Describing a moment of calm.
- "Working parents often yearn for even a short respite from their daily duties." A break from demanding work.
Memory hook
RESPITE: 'REST a bIT' from the stress. RESPITE = Rest from stress.
When not to use
Do not use 'respite' for a long, planned vacation. It suggests a temporary relief from something burdensome, not a full leisure period.
Fun facts
- 'Respite care' is a common term in healthcare, referring to temporary care for a dependent person, giving their usual caregiver a break.
Related words
Explore more words
reprieve, take a break, interlude, solace, repose, recuperate
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