B1noun1K

Breath

UK /["/breθ/"]/US /["/breθ/"]/

Definition

the air that you take into your lungs and send out again

In simple words: The air you take into and out of your lungs.

Examples

  • After running, I took a deep breath to calm myself.
  • She held her breath while underwater to see the fish.
  • During meditation, focusing on your breath can help enhance relaxation.
  • He could see his breath in the cold winter air.
  • The doctor asked if I experienced any difficulties with my breath.

Usage notes

Used in both formal and informal contexts. Avoid in overly technical discussions about respiration, where 'respiration' might be more appropriate.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of 'breath' as the 'breath' of fresh air; both share the same root.

Collocations

  • big
  • deep
  • heavy
  • draw
  • draw in
  • inhale
  • come in gasps, pants, puffs, etc.
  • on somebody’s breath
  • out of breath
  • under your breath
  • a breath of fresh air
  • an intake of breath
  • in the same breath
  • big
  • deep
  • heavy
  • draw
  • draw in
  • inhale
  • come in gasps, pants, puffs, etc.
  • on somebody’s breath
  • out of breath
  • under your breath
  • a breath of fresh air
  • an intake of breath
  • in the same breath
  • big
  • deep
  • heavy
  • draw
  • draw in
  • inhale
  • come in gasps, pants, puffs, etc.
  • on somebody’s breath
  • out of breath
  • under your breath
  • a breath of fresh air
  • an intake of breath
  • in the same breath

Synonyms

  • inhalation
  • exhalation
  • air
  • respiration

Antonyms

  • suffocation
  • asphyxiation

Common mistakes

  • Confused with 'breathe' which is the verb form.
  • Using 'breathes' as a noun, which is incorrect.