breathing space

noun

: some time in which to recover, get organized, or get going

called also breathing room, breathing spell

Examples of breathing space in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
While contemporary decor is often characterized by extra breathing space on walls and surfaces, this can become the perfect opportunity for displaying heirlooms. Patricia Shannon, Better Homes & Gardens, 18 Mar. 2025 Liverpool’s win, combined with Arsenal’s defeat at home to West Ham on Saturday, gives Arne Slot’s side some breathing space and a clear advantage in this season’s title race. James Nalton, Forbes, 24 Feb. 2025 Wolverhampton Wanderers are averaging well under a point per game and still have breathing space. Stuart James, The Athletic, 23 Feb. 2025 Both outcomes would have strengthened the Greek government’s bargaining power by giving it more breathing space. Martin Sandbu, Foreign Affairs, 12 Dec. 2017 See All Example Sentences for breathing space

Word History

First Known Use

1545, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of breathing space was in 1545

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Breathing space.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/breathing%20space. Accessed 21 Apr. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!