with bated breath: Idiom Meaning and Origin
What does ‘with bated breath’ mean?
The idiom with bated breath means to be in a state of anxious anticipation or excitement, often while waiting for something important or uncertain to happen.
Idiom Explorer
The idiom "with every breath" means to do something constantly, relentlessly or without interruption, often expressing unwavering dedication or determination.
The idiom "with bells on" means to eagerly and enthusiastically participate in something or to arrive at a place promptly, often with a sense of excitement or anticipation.
The idiom "wait in the wings" means to be ready and prepared to take action or to be involved in a situation, without being directly in the spotlight or participating at that moment.
The idiom "wait for it" is used to build anticipation for something that is going to happen or be revealed. It is often said before a surprising or significant statement, implying that the listener needs to be patient and prepared for the upcoming event or information.
The idiom "take a deep breath" means to pause, relax, and calm oneself before facing a challenging or stressful situation.
One of the most common idioms in the English language is "take a deep breath". This phrase, widely used and understood by native speakers, carries both a literal and metaphorical meaning.
The idiom "take a breath" means to pause and relax, usually during a stressful or intense situation. It suggests the need to calm down, gather one's thoughts, or regain composure before continuing.
The idiom "sweat bullets" means to be extremely nervous or anxious, often causing one to perspire heavily. It conveys the idea of feeling intense pressure or stress.
Sweat bullets is an idiom that describes someone who is very nervous or anxious. It can also refer to someone who sweats profusely. The origins of this idiom are uncertain but believed to have originated in the mid-20th century in the United States.
The idiom "skip a beat" means to have a momentary pause or hesitation due to surprise, excitement, fear, or other strong emotions.
The idiom "skip a beat" refers to a sudden pause or hesitation in one's regular heartbeat, often caused by a strong emotional reaction or surprise.
The idiom "on the edge of one's seat" means to be in a state of excitement, anticipation, or suspense, eagerly waiting for something to happen.
The idiom "on tenterhooks" means to be in a state of suspense or anxiety, waiting for something uncertain or important to happen. The feeling is similar to being on pins and needles, with a heightened sense of anticipation.
Enigmatic Expectations
The idiom "with bated breath" is an expression used in English language for centuries. It is characterized by its unique usage and its origin can be traced back to the works of famous English playwright William Shakespeare.
One fact about the idiom "with bated breath" is that it derives from an archaic spelling of the word "abate." The word "bate" is an abbreviation of "abate" and it means to hold back, restrain, or diminish. The term "bated breath" is used to indicate a state where a person is holding their breath in a suppressed or restrained manner.
The idiom "with bated breath" is often used in contexts where there is a sense of excitement or nervousness surrounding a specific event or outcome.
One notable use of the idiom "with bated breath" is found in Shakespeare's play "The Merchant of Venice," specifically in Act I, Scene III. The character Portia declares, "Tell me where is fancy bred... In the heart or in the head? How begot, how nourished? Reply, reply. Bated breath and whisp'ring humbleness." This moment in the play highlights the underlying tension and anticipation of Portia's suitors.
The usage of the idiom "with bated breath" has been widely adopted in literature, journalism, and everyday language. Its popularity has transcended time and is still commonly used in contemporary English.
Although the idiom's meaning is well-established, its etymology and origin have slightly divergent theories. Some scholars suggest that the term "bated" is derived from the word "abated," while others propose that it directly comes from the verb form of "bate."
The idiom "with bated breath" serves as a linguistic tool to convey the intensity of emotions associated with anticipation and suspense.
Another idiom related to "with bated breath" is "hold one's breath." This idiom is used to express a state of anticipation or suspense. It denotes the act of consciously stopping oneself from breathing in a moment of excitement or nervousness.
The idiom "on tenterhooks" is also related to "with bated breath." It describes a state of extreme suspense or anticipation, where a person is on edge waiting for a specific outcome or result.
Similarly, "with every breath" is another related idiom. It suggests that someone is eagerly anticipating or investing themselves fully in a particular situation or endeavor.
Furthermore, "on the edge of one's seat" is an idiom that conveys a state of suspense or excitement. It implies that someone is eagerly and anxiously waiting for something, with complete focus and attention.
Finally, "can't wait" is an idiom that expresses a strong sense of anticipation or impatience. It signifies a person's eagerness for something to happen or be revealed.
The idiom "with bated breath" has become firmly entrenched in the English lexicon and is recognized by speakers of the language across different generations and regions. Its enduring popularity can be attributed to its ability to succinctly capture the essence of anticipation, suspense, and anxiety in a concise and evocative manner.
Example usage
Examples of how the idiom with bated breath can be used in a sentence:
- I waited for the results of the job interview with bated breath.
- He opened the gift with bated breath to see what was inside.
- The crowd watched with bated breath as the gymnast attempted a dangerous, high-flying maneuver.
More "Anticipation" idioms
