the small blog of English lessons

Taking a load off (#idiom) with a bowl of ramen

One of our favorite ways to TAKE A LOAD OFF (#idiom) is by going out for a bowl of ramen. What’s yours?

Monday is President’s Day, a holiday in the U.S., so we’re getting a three-day weekend, which means I finally get to TAKE A LOAD OFF. It’s been so busy at work lately that I’m making it a point to take it easy this weekend. Sure, I still have a list of things to do, but I’m taking my time and getting things done at a more relaxed pace. The extra day off really does make a difference.

GET TO – able to
TAKE A LOAD OFF – take a break; relax
MAKING IT A POINT – making sure
TAKE IT EASY – relax; calm down
TAKE MY TIME – not hurry; not be in a rush
PACE – speed

You can TAKE A LOAD OFF at the end of the day. You can TAKE A LOAD OFF and go on vacation. You can even TAKE A LOAD OFF for just a few minutes to catch your breath or take a breather. Some people TAKE A LOAD OFF by sitting in front of the TV. Others TAKE A LOAD OFF with a glass of wine; still others TAKE A LOAD OFF by having dinner out with friends. I TAKE A LOAD OFF by watching movies or doing some writing. How about you? How do you TAKE A LOAD OFF?

CATCH YOUR BREATH – relax
TAKE A BREATHER – take a quick break/rest

Here are some examples of how this #idiom is used.

Maria, you’ve been working so hard. Why don’t you TAKE A LOAD OFF?
Tell Paul to TAKE A LOAD OFF; he’s so stressed these days.
Were you looking for us? We were just in the break room, TAKING A LOAD OFF.
Tom, you really should TAKE A LOAD OFF. Why don’t you ask us for help if you need it?
I already TOOK A LOAD OFF; now, I’m ready to get back to work.