a quick gasp

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a quick gasp" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe a brief, sudden intake of breath, often in response to surprise or shock. Example: "As the horror movie reached its climax, the audience let out a quick gasp in unison."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

1 human-written examples

Just a short walk from the Bairro Alto, central Lisbon, and attracting a mixed crowd of young musos, students, and tourists, the good times roll in this intimate space, which also has a terrace at the rear for a quick gasp of air.

The Guardian - Travel

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

59 human-written examples

Then imagine a few quick gasps of life - a sinister stare here, a jaunty jerk there - before he expires forever.

The Guardian - Music

I was there most of this past summer, a season when I typically alternate page-flipping with quick gasping dips in a pool not much bigger than a bathtub, after which I take time out of my busy schedule to feed the deerflies and mosquitoes.

Huffington Post

Every sentence was broken up by the quick gasps of the hiccups.

The New York Times

She began to cry, not with short sniffles but with long, slow wails and quick gasps for air.

The New York Times

The point is to have at your fingertips someone familiar to the group over whom you can share a quick and easy gasp, growl or guffaw, and this should only be used as a last resort.

Huffington Post

Play a quick game.

WikiHow

Object-oriented (OO) modeling and design methodologies have been receiving a significant attention since they allow a quick and easy-to-gasp overview about a complex model.

Data & Knowledge Engineering

A plate of camarones a la diabla, the devil's shrimp, may be even spicier; big, butterflied creatures in a smoky purée that may leave you gasping for a quick, merciful death.

Los Angeles Times

BETHESDA, Md. — Face-lifts can often prompt a quick intake of breath, not so much a gasp, which would be rude, but more a small sip of surprise, covering any reaction, good, bad or undecided.

The New York Times - Sports

When Ms. Menzel said she was thinking about having children soon, Ms. Chenoweth gasped in surprise, but she had a quick verbal response.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a quick gasp" to vividly describe a sudden intake of breath in response to surprise, shock, or physical exertion.

Common error

Avoid using "a quick gasp" to describe someone struggling to breathe for an extended period. "Gasp" implies a sudden, short intake of breath, not a drawn-out respiratory issue.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a quick gasp" functions as a noun phrase, typically acting as the subject or object in a sentence. It describes a specific instance of inhaling sharply and rapidly, as illustrated by Ludwig.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Wiki

25%

Science

25%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a quick gasp" is a grammatically sound and usable phrase that describes a sudden, brief intake of breath, often in response to surprise or shock. As Ludwig AI confirms, the phrase is correct and suitable for various contexts, primarily appearing in news and media. To ensure proper usage, focus on conveying the suddenness of the breath and avoid using it for prolonged breathing difficulties. Consider alternatives like "a sudden intake of air" or "a sharp breath" to vary your writing. While the phrase is not extremely common, it is certainly recognized and effective when used appropriately.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a sudden intake of air

Focuses on the action of breathing in suddenly.

a sharp breath

Emphasizes the intensity and suddenness of the breath.

a brief inhalation

Replaces "gasp" with a more formal term for breathing in.

a shallow breath

Highlights the lack of depth in the breath.

a snatched breath

Implies the breath was taken hurriedly.

a fleeting breath

Highlights the short duration of the breath.

a rapid intake of breath

Focuses on the speed of breathing in.

a hurried breath

Suggests the breath was taken due to urgency.

a short puff

Uses a different term to describe a small burst of air.

a light exhalation

Emphasizes breath being quick rather than the action itself.

FAQs

How can I use "a quick gasp" in a sentence?

You can use "a quick gasp" to describe a sudden intake of breath, often in response to surprise or shock, as in "As the horror movie reached its climax, the audience let out "a quick gasp" in unison."

What can I say instead of "a quick gasp"?

You can use alternatives like "a sudden intake of air", "a sharp breath", or "a brief inhalation" depending on the context.

Is it correct to say "a quick gasp of air"?

Yes, "a quick gasp of air" is a common and acceptable way to use the phrase, emphasizing the intake of air. However, "a quick gasp" alone is also grammatically correct and widely used.

What does "a quick gasp" usually imply?

"A quick gasp" usually implies a sudden, involuntary intake of breath, often in response to surprise, shock, or pain. It suggests a brief and often audible reaction.