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UKwith bated breath
/wɪð bˈeɪtɪd bɹˈɛθ/
/wɪð bˈeɪɾᵻd bɹˈɛθ/with bated breath
[PHRASE]
What is the origin of the idiom "with bated breath" and when to use it?
The phrase "with bated breath" originated from Shakespeare's play "The Merchant of Venice" and means to hold one's breath in anticipation or suspense. It is often employed in situations where people are eagerly awaiting an outcome, announcement, or significant event. This expression is commonly used in both formal and informal contexts, such as during important ceremonies, sporting events, performances, or when waiting for the results of a competition.
Examples
1. As we wait with bated breath for news of progress in developing vaccines for COVID-19, some scientists are turning their attention to vaccines we already have.
2. Since the journalists were waiting with bated breath to find out what he would do next, this became an overnight sensation.
3. The Gunpowder Plot After King James I came into power, Catholics waited with bated breath to see what would happen next.
4. Or when it's finally your turn to prepare that family recipe and yo granny and yo aunties take that first bite and you're just sitting there waiting with bated breath for that generational co-sign.
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