Learn Hardcore German: Ich mache Pause.

In this idiomatic expression, Pause is used without an article because German often omits the article in fixed phrases. Although Pause is a feminine noun (normally die Pause), the expression Pause machen has become an established way to say “to take a break.” The omission of the article makes the phrase more concise and colloquial.

What does the verb mache mean in this context?

Mache is the first-person singular form of the verb machen, which literally means “to do” or “to make.” In the context of Ich mache Pause, it is best understood as “to take” in the sense of “taking a break.” So the sentence translates to “I take a break” or “I am taking a break.”

Is Ich mache Pause equivalent to the English expression “I’m taking a break”?

Yes, it is. The sentence Ich mache Pause is a direct and idiomatic way in German to express that you are taking a break. While the literal translation might be “I make break,” the idiomatic meaning is the same as “I’m taking a break.”

Can I also say Ich mache eine Pause? If so, is there any difference?

You can say Ich mache eine Pause, and it is grammatically correct. However, the version without the article (Ich mache Pause) is more common in everyday spoken German. Including eine makes the sentence slightly more formal or explicit but both forms are understood to mean “I’m taking a break.”