'We were on a break!'

In perhaps one of the more memorable Friends episodes, Ross and Rachel argue about whether it was acceptable for Ross to sleep with someone else while he and Rachel were "on a break."

In Rachel's eyes, the break did not signify a permanent decision, nor one that allowed the pair to sleep with other people. It was just some time off from each other. In Ross's eyes, a break was just that -- a separation from the current relationship.

Before taking such a break, couples should discuss the terms of the break that they expect each other to adhere to. From the above example, it is obvious that people have different ideas about what actions are allowed in a break and what aren't. For example, can you date other people? Can you kiss other people? Can you sleep with other people? These should be questions asked before a break goes into effect.

Personally, I think that if you need a break, you might as well break up for good. However, I know it is possible for some couples to take breaks and come back and have successful relationships.

What defines a "break" for you? Have you ever taken a break from a relationship? What were the terms? Did you end up staying with the person you took a break from?