catch one's breath: translation
catch one's breath
Fig. to struggle for normal breathing after strenuous activity. •
The jogger stopped to catch her breath.
•
It took Jimmy a minute to catch his breath after being punched in the stomach.
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{v. phr.} 1. To breathe in suddenly with fear or surprise. * /The beauty of the scene made him catch his breath./ Compare: TAKE ONE'S BREATH AWAY. 2a. To rest and get back your normal breathing, as after running. * /After running to the bus stop, we sat down to catch our breath./ 2b. To relax for a moment after any work. * /After the day's work we sat down over coffee to catch our breath./