a change is as good as a rest
In real, traceable use. Part of the curated seed collection; community review is coming.
Meaning · English
Doing something different from one's routine is as refreshing as taking a break from work altogether.
Where it’s used:
Used
American English
Examples
"I guess there's a novelty factor element involved in working them. I think drivers like driving different traction, and there might also be a 'change is as good as a rest' element.
Usage example from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30)
Sources & notes
Adapted from English Wiktionary (CC BY-SA 4.0, retrieved 2026-07-30 via kaikki.org).
Common questions
What does “a change is as good as a rest” mean?
Doing something different from one's routine is as refreshing as taking a break from work altogether.
Is “a change is as good as a rest” formal or informal?
No register label has been reviewed yet — treat it as neutral and check the usage notes above.