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to hold one's breath
01
to wait for something anxiously or eagerly
![to [hold] {one's} breath definition and meaning](https://cdn.langeek.co/photo/44182/original/?type=jpeg "to [hold] {one's} breath definition and meaning")
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
He held his breath under the water.
Hold your breath while I take this photo.
Hold your breath when diving under a wave on your bodyboard.
02
to consciously or voluntarily stop breathing for a temporary period of time
Example
They will be holding their breath during the performance, anticipating a breathtaking finale.
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.
例子
He held his breath under the water.
Hold your breath while I take this photo.
Hold your breath when diving under a wave on your bodyboard.
She avoided the stinky alley behind the restaurant, holding her breath as she passed by.
After holding her breath, she slowly exhaled and relaxed.
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