Meaning and Usage
"切れ目" refers to a break, gap, or pause in something continuous, such as a sentence, event, or physical object. It often indicates a natural or intentional interruption.
Common Contexts
You will see "切れ目" used in contexts like text or speech (meaning breaks), meetings or activities (pauses), and physical objects like roads or fabric (gaps or seams).
Collocations and Patterns
- 切れ目がない: no breaks or pauses, continuous
- 切れ目を入れる: to insert a break or pause
- 切れ目で止まる: to stop at a gap or break
Nuance and Register
"切れ目" is neutral and can be used in both formal and informal contexts. It often implies a clear division or interruption that is noticeable or important.
Learner Tips
Be careful not to confuse "切れ目" with "終わり" (end) or "間" (interval). "切れ目" emphasizes the point of interruption or gap itself, not just the end or the time between events.