Definition

Verb phrase: - To pause briefly to rest and regain one's normal breathing, especially after physical exertion or a moment of shock or surprise. It implies a short rest to recover one's composure or physical state.

Usage

This phrase is used to describe the act of stopping an activity for a short time to recover, typically from being out of breath. It can be used both literally (after running) and figuratively (after a surprise).

Examples

• After climbing the stairs, I had to catch my breath before I could speak.
• The news was so shocking that she needed a moment to catch her breath.
• Let's stop here for a minute so everyone can catch their breath.

Advanced Usage

• The phrase can be used in the continuous form to describe the process of recovery.
  • He was on the bench, catching his breath after the sprint.

Variants and Related Words

• Catch your breath is the standard form. The possessive pronoun changes according to the subject (e.g., catch his breath, catch our breath).
• Get one's breath back: A near-synonymous phrase with the same meaning.

Synonyms

• Pause: To stop temporarily.
• Rest: To cease work or movement in order to relax.
• Take a breather (idiom): To take a short break.

Related Idioms

• Take a breather: This idiom is very close in meaning, emphasizing a short, informal break.
  • After moving the furniture, let's take a breather.

Verb

1. take a short break from one's activities in order to relax