Meaning
To wait anxiously and expectantly for something to happen.
Cultural Background
In Western news, this phrase is a cliché used to describe any major political or sporting event. In business, 'don't hold your breath' is a common way to politely tell someone that their request is unlikely to be granted. It is used to describe the collective experience of fans, creating a sense of shared community.
Context is key
Only use this for things that really matter. Don't use it for waiting for the microwave.
Don't be dramatic
If you use this for everything, people will think you are always anxious.
Meaning
To wait anxiously and expectantly for something to happen.
Context is key
Only use this for things that really matter. Don't use it for waiting for the microwave.
Don't be dramatic
If you use this for everything, people will think you are always anxious.
Use the negative
'Don't hold your breath' is a very useful phrase for expressing doubt.
Test Yourself
Fill in the correct form of the idiom.
The whole stadium was _____ as the final goal was scored.
The sentence is in the past continuous tense, so 'holding' is required.
Which sentence uses the idiom correctly?
Choose the best option.
This is the only sentence where the idiom is used to express anticipation of an important, uncertain event.
Match the situation to the idiom usage.
You are waiting for a very important email.
This idiom perfectly captures the anxiety of waiting for important news.
Complete the dialogue.
A: 'Do you think I'll get the job?' B: '_____'
Getting a job is a high-stakes event, making the idiom appropriate.
🎉 Score: /4
Visual Learning Aids
Practice Bank
4 exercisesThe whole stadium was _____ as the final goal was scored.
The sentence is in the past continuous tense, so 'holding' is required.
Choose the best option.
This is the only sentence where the idiom is used to express anticipation of an important, uncertain event.
You are waiting for a very important email.
This idiom perfectly captures the anxiety of waiting for important news.
A: 'Do you think I'll get the job?' B: '_____'
Getting a job is a high-stakes event, making the idiom appropriate.
🎉 Score: /4
Frequently Asked Questions
8 questionsNo, it's too dramatic. Use 'I'm waiting for the bus'.
It's neutral. You can use it with friends or in a news report.
It means 'don't expect it to happen'.
Yes, but 'bated breath' is much more formal.
No, that would be 'holding my tongue'.
Yes, it is standard in all major English dialects.
It ends with a soft 'th' sound, like 'bath'.
No, it's a metaphor for emotional tension.
Related Phrases
On the edge of one's seat
similarVery excited and interested.
Bated breath
synonymWaiting with excitement.
Wait and see
contrastTo wait patiently.
