in the same / next breath

/ɪnðə sˈeɪm nˈɛkst bɹˈɛθ/

[phrase]

[PHRASE]

used when something happens almost at the same time as another

What is the origin of the idiom "in the same breath" and when to use it?

The origin of the idiom "in the same breath" or "in the next breath" can be traced back to ancient Greek rhetoric and literary devices. In Greek rhetoric, there was a technique called "symploke" which involved connecting contrasting or contradictory ideas or statements in quick succession. This technique was used to create emphasis, surprise, or irony in speech or writing. It is commonly used in conversations, debates, or discussions where someone makes contrasting or contradictory remarks or expresses conflicting thoughts or opinions in a short span of time.

Examples

1. And then, you know, in the same sort of sentence, in the same breath, people wonder why we don't even try.

2. She admitted it but said in the same breath that it was of no consequence.

3. The boss spent nearly an hour talking about how we had to cut spending in the office, but in the next breath, he was telling his secretary to upgrade his company car.

4. Occasionally they would turn up during droughts of food shortages as a blessing, but in the same breath would be resented because they’d dig up and eat all of the recently planted seeds for crops.