Words / B1

BRETH/breθ/

Breath is the noun: the air you take in — take a deep breath; out of breath; hold your breath; bad breath. Breathe is the verb (extra e, different sound): never “take a breathe.” A breath of fresh air can be literal or mean something new and welcome. Under your breath means in a very quiet voice.

Meaning

The air that you take into and send out of your lungs.

Examples

• “She took a deep breath and started the exam.”
• “He was out of breath after the stairs.”
• “She muttered the answer under her breath.”

Good to know

take a breath. out of / hold your breath. Verb: breathe. Not “a breathe.”

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