休憩

きゅうけい

rest, break, intermission

JLPT N3

Character Breakdown

Meaning and Usage

"休憩" means a short rest or break, often used in formal or written contexts. It refers to taking time to pause from work, activity, or performance to recover energy.

Common Contexts

It is frequently used for breaks during work, performances (like theater intermissions), or sports events. The term implies a temporary pause rather than a long rest.

Collocations and Patterns

  • 休憩时间 (break time): the period allocated for resting
  • 中场休憩 (intermission): a break in the middle of a performance or game
  • 短暂休憩 (short rest): emphasizes the briefness of the break

Usage Notes

"休憩" is more formal and less colloquial than "休息". In daily conversation, "休息" is more common. Avoid confusing "休憩" with "休息" when speaking casually. "休憩" often appears in written announcements or formal speech.

Common Confusion

Do not confuse "休憩" with "休息". While both mean rest, "休息" is more general and widely used in everyday speech, whereas "休憩" is more specific to short breaks and formal contexts.

Example Sentences

We have worked for two hours, now let's take a ten-minute break.

During the theater intermission, the audience can go to the rest area to have some drinks.

Athletes need a short rest during the game to recover their strength.