Proverb / Kotowaza
息を呑む
To momentarily catch or hold one's breath due to intense surprise, tension, or awe.
to swallow one's breath
Quick Answer
To momentarily catch or hold one's breath due to intense surprise, tension, or awe.
- Literal Image
- to swallow one's breath
- How to Use It
- Used to describe reactions to breathtaking scenery, dramatic turns in a story, or highly impressive performances.
Meaning
This expression describes the involuntary physical response of stopping one's breath when struck by a powerful emotion or observation. It is used to capture the feeling of being overwhelmed by stunning beauty, a suspenseful event, or a shocking realization. The phrase emphasizes the intensity of the moment that leaves the observer temporarily breathless.
Literal Image
to swallow one's breath
How to Use It
Used to describe reactions to breathtaking scenery, dramatic turns in a story, or highly impressive performances.
Tone
Neutral and descriptive; found in literary or formal writing to convey strong emotion.
Examples
息を呑むほど美しい夕焼けが、空一面に広がっていた。
A sunset so beautiful it took one's breath away spread across the entire sky.
息を呑む展開に、観客は固唾を飲んで見守った。
The audience watched with bated breath as the story took a breathtaking turn.
彼の演技に息を呑み、しばらく拍手も忘れていた。
People caught their breath at his performance and forgot to applaud for a while.
Learning Notes
Key Vocabulary
While the vocabulary for breath and swallowing is basic, the idiomatic use to express awe or shock is an essential intermediate concept.
息
いき / iki
breath
呑む
のむ / nomu
to swallow; to gulp
Usage Profile
Misread Risk
It should not be used as a literal description of eating or drinking; it specifically refers to the emotional reaction that halts one's breathing.
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Origin
This expression stems from the physiological phenomenon where a person's breathing momentarily stops upon experiencing strong surprise or tension. It evolved into a idiom used to describe the state of being struck by admiration or finding oneself in a high-pressure situation.
Index
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Topics
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Source Note
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