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V2 Vocabulary Building Dictionary


respite

noun

Definition: 1. a pause from doing something, often for relaxation; 2. a usually short interruption of relief in the intensity or amount of something, especially harm or discomfort; 3. a temporary suspension of a punishment

Synonyms: pause, reprieve, rest, recess, interruption, lull, letup, cessation, deliverance, hiatus, suspension

Antonyms: continuation

Tips: Respite is a relief from burden or a temporary pause in something. Shakespeare used respite to mean "relief and rest from labor or pain," and it is still an intellectual word representing a short rest from a difficult situation. Respite can also be used as a verb, meaning "to delay punishment." See also: reprieve. Reprieve is more commonly used in this context.

Usage Examples:

We allowed ourselves a few moments of respite in the shade during our strenuous hike. (reprieve, rest)

The governor ordered a respite for the scheduled execution, due to the throngs of protestors in front of the capitol. (suspension, reprieve)

We worked in the garden all day, with only five minutes of respite for a drink of water. (pause, letup)

The end of the difficult project was in sight, and I looked forward to some respite from the work. (reprieve, recess, rest)


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