rest to stop working or stop being active, and sit down or lie down so that you become less tired:
If you’re tired, we’ll stop and rest for a while. The doctor told me to take some time off work and try to rest.take a rest (
also have a rest especially British English) to stop what you are doing for a period of time so that you can relax:
Murray will now take a rest before the competition next month. There was a TV in the hotel room, and sometimes I escaped up there to have a rest. A spokesman said that the Senator needed to take a rest from the campaign activity.take a break (
also have a break especially British English) to stop what you are doing for a short time, so that you can rest or do something else – often used about stopping a meeting, class etc for a short time:
Is it all right if we have a short break at about 10:30? I spoke to the actor as he was taking a break from rehearsals. Let’s take a break now for coffee.take it easy (
also take things easy) to do things gently and with less effort than usual, in order to avoid becoming worried or tired, especially because you are not feeling strong or healthy:
After the operation, she decided to take things easy for a month or two. I thought I’d take it easy tonight.put your feet up informal to rest for a short time after a tiring activity, especially by sitting with your feet resting on something:
Kate poured herself a drink and put her feet up. When you’re pregnant and doing a full-time job, you must find time to put your feet up.chill/chill out informal to spend time relaxing and doing things that do not need a lot of effort – used by young people:
We chilled out in front of the TV with a couple of beers. I like chilling with the guys and playing pool or watching movies. [TahlilGaran] English Thesaurus ▲
take it easy v. phr.,
informal 1. or
go easy or
take things easy To go or act slowly, carefully, and gently.
■ Often used with "on".
Take it easy. The roads are icy./
"Go easy," said Billy to the other boys carrying the table down the stairs.
"Take it easy on John and don't scold him too much," said Mrs. Jones to Mr. Jones.
Go easy on the cake. There isn't much left.
2. or take things easy To avoid hard work or worry; have an easy time; live in comfort.
The doctor said that Bob would have to take things easy for awhile after he had his tonsils out.
Barbara likes to take it easy.
Grandfather will retire from his job next year and take things easy.
Mr. Wilson has just made a lot of money and can take things easy now. [TahlilGaran] English Idioms Dictionary ▲