Portuguese Phrase
Já é hora da pausa?
Meaning
The sentence asks whether the moment for a break has arrived, often used when a group has been working or studying for a while. It can also convey a slight sense of impatience, as if the speaker feels the break is overdue.
When to use
Use this phrase in informal or semi‑formal settings such as classrooms, offices, or group study sessions when you want to check if it’s time to stop and rest. It works well after a set period of activity, like after a lesson, a meeting, or a long stretch of work.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Jáéhoradapausa?
Já
Used to indicate that something has already happened or is about to happen; often translates to 'already' or 'now'.
é
Third‑person singular of the verb ser (to be) used for stating time, identity, or characteristics.
hora
A noun meaning 'hour' or 'time'; in this construction it functions like 'time' in English.
da
Contraction of de + a, meaning 'of the' and linking the noun 'pausa' to 'hora'.
pausa
A feminine noun meaning 'break' or 'pause', often used in work or study contexts.
Interrogative intonation
Adding a question mark turns the declarative statement 'Já é hora da pausa' into a yes‑no question.
🗨In Conversation
Já é hora da pausa?
Is it time for a break?
Sim, vamos descansar por quinze minutos.
Yes, let's rest for fifteen minutes.
✕Common Mistakes
Já é hora da pausa
Missing the question mark changes the meaning to a statement: "It is already break time."
Já é hora da pausa!
An exclamation mark makes it sound like a declaration, not a question.
Já é hora para a pausa?
Using "para" instead of "da" ("Já é hora para a pausa?") is grammatically possible but sounds unnatural; native speakers prefer "da".
↔Alternatives
Já podemos fazer a pausa?
Can we take a break now?
É hora da pausa?
Is it break time?
Chegou a hora da pausa?
Has the break time arrived?
Cultural Tip
In Brazil and Portugal, scheduled breaks are common in schools (recess) and many workplaces (coffee break). Asking "Já é hora da pausa?" shows awareness of the routine and can be a polite way to suggest a short rest. In more formal settings, you might use "Poderíamos fazer uma pausa?" to sound less abrupt.