break

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BREAK:   As in to physically break something apart:

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BREAK:  As in, "off work," or "vacation:"

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INTERMISSION:

If you mean break as in "intermission" or "interlude" use this sign:
The left hand is in a "loose" four handshape (notice in the example, my pinkie and ring finger are together--it doesn't matter, that's just how my hand ended up. The index and middle could be together too).

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If you mean break as in PAUSE, then you can use this sign:
The right index finger reaches down changes to an "X" handshape and lifts up the left index finger

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Discussion:
As time goes on I'm seeing more and more people using the signs "BREAK-(apart)  TIME" to mean, "breaktime."
I also see people signing, "I NEED BREAK" to mean, "I need a break" as in, "I need to rest."
As a lexicographer I do not feel the need to try and correct this trend.  I do want you to be aware that the "correctness" of the usage of the sign "BREAK-(apart)" is changing.  As more and more people start using the sign "BREAK-(apart)" to mean "breaktime" it will become more common, thus more standard or "correct."
Society makes this decision.  Not ASL teachers.

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