B1noun2K

Breathing

UK /["/ˈbriːðɪŋ/"]/US /["/ˈbriːðɪŋ/"]/

Definition

the action of taking air into the lungs and sending it out again

In simple words: The act of taking air into and out of your lungs.

Examples

Her breathing became steady and she fell asleep.
Deep breathing exercises will help you relax.
Heavy *(= loud)* breathing was all I could hear.
Firefighters wearing breathing apparatus went into the house.
The drug is used to treat breathing difficulties caused by asthma.
Are you having difficulty in breathing?
His breathing was uneven, and he could hardly speak.
Loosen any tight clothing that may be restricting their breathing.
The city's poor air quality is putting more and more children in hospital with breathing problems.

Usage notes

Used in both everyday conversation and more serious contexts. Not typically used in slang. Can describe both voluntary and involuntary actions.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of inhaling and exhaling like a 'breath-ing' rhythm.

Collocations

deep
shallow
controlled
control
regulate
quicken
slow
slow down
apparatus
difficulties
problems

Synonyms

inhaling
exhaling
respiring
ventilating

Antonyms

suffocation
asphyxiation

Common mistakes

Confusing 'breathing' as a noun with 'breathe', which is a verb.
Using 'breathing' when referring to a breath, which is a single instance of drawing air.
Incorrectly spelling it as 'breething'.