idioms with “breath”

A breath of fresh air

Pleasantly different that what one is used to

“The office used to be so boring before Sakamoto-san joined us. She is a breath of fresh air.”

Hold one’s breath

To wait anxiously to hear the outcome

“We all held our breath as the winners of the contest were announced.”

In the same breath

To say something contradictory

“Kondo-san said she didn’t have enough money to go to the movie, and then in the same breath, said she was going out to buy new shoes.”

Take one’s breath away

To shock or amaze

“The beauty of the fireworks display took my breath away.”

Waste one’s breath

To speak to those who won’t listen

“Hori-san wanted to protest against working over the weekend but knew he would be wasting his breath.”