difference of the two phrases?

What differences are there between "hold one's breath" and "catch one's breath"?


I 'd like to know the difference in nuance.

Thanks for your help!

[Casiopea]

Originally Posted by pb

What differences are there between "hold one's breath" and "catch one's breath"? I 'd like to know the difference in nuance.

hold one's breath = stop one's breath
catch one's breath = find one's breath

Examples

We've been jogging for 30 minutes. I need to stop and catch my breath.
==> I need to stop and rest.

They're going to announce the winner right now. I'm so nervous. My breathing is loud, so I'm going to hold my breath.
==> I'm going to make myself stop breathing, because the sound of my breathing is really loud right now and maybe I won't be able to hear them announce the winner.

:D

[Tdol]

Isn't 'catch your breath' often used for a short break required, such as after rushing for a bus?

[Casiopea]

Originally Posted by tdol

Isn't 'catch your breath' often used for a short break required, such as after rushing for a bus?

Yup. I concur.

Originally Posted by Cas

We've been jogging for 30 minutes. I need to stop and catch my breath.
==> I need to stop and rest.

:D

[Tdol]

After 30 minutes' jogging, I'd need urgent medical attention and an oxygen tent.

[Casiopea]

Originally Posted by tdol

After 30 minutes' jogging, I'd need urgent medical attention and an oxygen tent.

catch a cab