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  1. #1
    Anonymous Guest

    Default 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!

  2. #2
    Casiopea's Avatar
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    Default Re: difference of the two phrases?

    Quote 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

  3. #3
    Tdol is offline Editor, UsingEnglish.com
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    Isn't 'catch your breath' often used for a short break required, such as after rushing for a bus?

  4. #4
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    Quote 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.

    Quote 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

  5. #5
    Tdol is offline Editor, UsingEnglish.com
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    After 30 minutes' jogging, I'd need urgent medical attention and an oxygen tent.

  6. #6
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    Quote Originally Posted by tdol
    After 30 minutes' jogging, I'd need urgent medical attention and an oxygen tent.

    catch a cab

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