Breath: meaning, definitions and examples

Simple, singular act of air being taken in or expelled from the lungs. Used often in everyday conversations.

• She took a deep breath before speaking.
• He held his breath while diving underwater.

The act of breathing in air into the lungs. Used when specifying the action of taking in air, often in controlled or detailed situations.

• Inhale deeply through your nose.
• She inhaled the sweet scent of the flowers.

The act of breathing out air from the lungs. Often used in more detailed or specific contexts, like yoga or meditation.

• Exhale slowly to calm yourself.
• After running, he had to exhale deeply to catch his breath.

A more scientific or medical term for the overall process of breathing, including both inhaling and exhaling.

• Respiration rates increased during exercise.
• The doctor checked his respiration to ensure he was breathing properly.

Used when talking about the air taken into or expelled from the lungs. Often associated with breathing, relaxation, or the freshness of the air.

• Take a deep breath and try to relax.
• You could see his breath in the cold air.

Used to describe a light and gentle wind. Often connotes a pleasant or refreshing feeling.

• A cool breeze came in from the ocean.
• We enjoyed the evening breeze on the balcony.

Generally refers to a current of cool air moving through an enclosed space. Can also mean an initial version of a written document, but in this context, it's about air movement.

• I felt a draft coming in through the window.
• Please avoid sitting where there’s a draft, you might catch a cold.

Used to describe a sudden, strong burst of wind. It usually carries a more intense or forceful connotation compared to a breeze.

• A sudden gust of wind knocked over the chair.
• The gusts of wind made it difficult to walk.

Generally refers to the act of breathing or a single cycle of inhalation and exhalation. It can be used in both everyday and specific contexts such as sports, meditation, or moments of surprise.

• I need to catch my breath after running.
• She took a deep breath before going on stage.

Used specifically when referring to the act of breathing in. It is often used in medical, exercise, or instructional contexts.

• Inhale deeply and hold your breath for a few seconds.
• She inhaled the fresh mountain air.

Used specifically when referring to the act of breathing out. Common in contexts related to relaxation, exercises like yoga, or instructions for breathing techniques.

• Remember to exhale slowly during meditation.
• He let a sigh as he exhaled.

A more formal or scientific term for the act of breathing. Typically used in medical, biological, or technical contexts.

• Cells require oxygen to respire effectively.
• The doctor checked whether the patient was able to respire normally.