Meaning of catch one's breath | Babel Free

Definitions

1. to take a break, or rest while doing a strenuous activity, so that one's breathing becomes easier
2. to take in a breath sharply and hold it, usually in reaction to a sudden shock, or surprise

Equivalents

Examples

“They stood for a moment at the end of the set to catch their breath before resuming play.”

“John caught his breath when he saw the bottle rolling unstoppably towards the opposite edge of the table.”

CEFR level