Formal and Informal Expressions of relief

In different contexts, you can replace 'relief' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'alleviation, assistance' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'break, breather' is a commonplace synonym.

relief: Explore its Definition & Usage

relief Definition

1a feeling of reassurance and relaxation following release from anxiety or distress
2the removal or lightening of something oppressive, painful, or distressing
3a person or group of people replacing others who have been on duty

Using relief: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "relief" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

Example
The news of his safety was a great relief to his family.
Example
The medicine brought some relief from the pain.
Example
The relief workers arrived just in time to help the victims.

relief Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for relief

Antonyms for relief

Idioms Using relief

breath of relief
a sigh or deep breath taken after a stressful situation has ended
Example
After the presentation was over, she let out a breath of relief.
to one's relief
something that is a source of comfort or ease
Example
To her relief, the test was easier than she had expected.
take relief
to take a break or rest from a task or duty
Example
He took relief from his post after working for six hours straight.

Phrases with relief

feeling of relief
a sense of comfort and ease that follows the removal of a burden or problem
Example
She felt a great feeling of relief after finishing her exams.
comic relief
humorous content or character in a serious work that provides a temporary break from tension or drama
Example
The clown's performance provided some much-needed comic relief in the intense play.
pressure relief valve
a safety device designed to release pressure from a system when it exceeds a certain level
Example
The pressure relief valve on the boiler prevented an explosion.

Origins of relief

from Old French 'relief', meaning 'assistance'

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Summary: relief in Brief

The term 'relief' [rɪˈliːf] refers to the removal or lightening of something oppressive, painful, or distressing. It can also denote a person or group of people replacing others who have been on duty. Examples include 'The news of his safety was a great relief to his family.' and 'The relief workers arrived just in time to help the victims.' Phrases like 'comic relief' and idioms like 'breath of relief' add nuance to the term.