Meaning & use
halftime
Last updated
UK/ˈhɑːftaɪm/
US/ˈhæftaɪm/
Meaning
nouncountable or uncountable
The short break between the two halves of a sports game.
Grammar: Can be used with or without 'the'; often in phrases like 'at halftime'.
Patterns
- at halftime
- during halftime
- the halftime show
The score was tied at halftime.
We grabbed snacks during halftime.
The band performed at the halftime show.
Common combinations
- at halftime
- The coach gave a motivating speech at halftime.
- halftime show
- Millions watched the halftime show.
- halftime break
- We stretched our legs during the halftime break.
- halftime score
- The halftime score was 2–1.
Synonyms and how they differ
- intermission
- Used for breaks in plays, concerts, or other performances, not usually for sports.
- break
- A general word for any pause; 'halftime' is specific to sports games.
Word family
Commonly confused: halftime or full time?
halftime vs full time
The end of the whole game; 'halftime' is only the break in the middle.
Practice
When does halftime happen in a soccer match?
Choose one answer.
Halftime is the break between the two halves, so it happens after the first half. Option 1 is before the game; option 2 is after the game (full time); option 3 would be during play, not a break.
Make it your own
Write a sentence using “halftime”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.
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