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With Bated Breath

What Does "With Bated Breath" Mean?

homeidiomsWith Bated Breath
"With bated breath" is an English idiom. It means "in a state of eager anticipation, excitement, or anxiety, often while waiting for something important."

Examples in Sentences

Here are three examples of the idiom "with bated breath" used in a sentence:
  • They waited with bated breath for the results of the election to be announced.
  • The audience watched the performance with bated breath, captivated by the suspense.
  • With bated breath, she opened the envelope containing the college acceptance letter.
meaning for with bated breath

What Is an Idiom?

An idiom is a commonly used expression whose meaning does not relate to the literal meaning of its words. In other words, if you were to translate "With Bated Breath" word for word, there is no guarantee the translation would help you to understand the meaning.

An idiom often includes a cultural or historical context that makes it difficult for non-native English speakers to understand. A phrase is classified as an idiom when a direct translation of the words does not reveal the meaning. Most idioms rely on shared knowledge or experiences known only to a specific community.

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