Rechercher
to hold one's breath
01
to wait for something anxiously or eagerly
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IdiomWhat is the origin of the idiom "hold one's breath" and when to use it?
The idiom "hold one's breath" originated from the literal act of voluntarily or involuntarily stopping one's breathing. The expression has been used since ancient times and has its roots in the physical response to moments of tension, suspense, or anticipation. In such situations, individuals often hold their breath as a reflexive response. It is employed to describe the act of waiting anxiously or with great anticipation for a specific outcome, event, or result.
Example
The eerie silence in the forest was foreboding, as if nature itself was holding its breath.
His cue came just as the audience held their breath in anticipation.
The swimmer 's instinct to hold her breath underwater helped her win the race.
02
to consciously or voluntarily stop breathing for a temporary period of time
Example
The suspenseful silence in the room made everyone hold their breath in anticipation.
He said he 'd be here in 15 minutes, but given his track record, I would n't hold my breath.
We held our breath as the results were announced, hoping for a positive outcome.
Exemple
The eerie silence in the forest was foreboding, as if nature itself was holding its breath.
His cue came just as the audience held their breath in anticipation.
The swimmer's instinct to hold her breath underwater helped her win the race.
The crowd held its breath as he approached match point.
Holding your breath under water for an hour defies human physiology.
Mots Proches
