give someone a break

Give someone a chance or special consideration. For example, She begged the professor for an extension on her term paper, saying “Please give me a break.” [c. 1900] Also see get a break.

give me a break. Stop trying to fool or upset or bother me. For example, Don’t tell me the party’s been postponed again—give me a break! This interjection is usually uttered with semihumorous exasperation. [Slang; late 1900s]