a sharp breath

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "a sharp breath" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it to describe a sound that someone made suddenly, usually when being startled or shocked. For example: When he heard the news, he took a sharp breath.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

24 human-written examples

I drew a sharp breath.

The New Yorker

A sharp breath and my chest contracts.

The New York Times - Magazine

At that point in his testimony, Officer Maloney paused and took a sharp breath.

The New York Times

Quite a few people in the crowd drew a sharp breath at that.

The New York Times

"What are you doing?" I took in a sharp breath and looked him in the eye.

The New York Times

When you're his subject, his cartoons can make you take a sharp breath.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

36 human-written examples

She took a deep, sharp breath.

The New Yorker

Sitting in the home she grew up in, on St. Stephen's Lane across a farm field from the church, she squeezes her hands into tight fists and takes a quick, sharp breath when she characterizes how she felt, voting to leave the Episcopal Church.

The Washington Post

Pooley had not discussed his plans to return with his parents, but when asked how she would feel, his mother, Jackie, took a few sharp breaths.

The Guardian

In short, it's a sharp, cold breath in a room that could surely use the air. .

Vice

On the opposite wall, Breathe, from 1966, is just like a sharp intake of breath.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "a sharp breath" to convey a sudden reaction or emotional response, such as surprise, shock, or fear. This phrase can add intensity and immediacy to your writing.

Common error

Avoid using "a sharp breath" in overly passive constructions. Instead of writing "A sharp breath was taken", opt for active sentences like "She took a sharp breath" for a stronger impact.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a sharp breath" functions primarily as a noun phrase. It typically describes a sudden and often involuntary inhalation, indicating a reaction to surprise, shock, or other intense emotions. Ludwig examples show the phrase used in narrative contexts to highlight character reactions.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "a sharp breath" is a grammatically sound and relatively common way to describe a sudden inhalation, usually prompted by surprise or a strong emotion. Ludwig AI confirms its validity and provides numerous examples from reputable sources, primarily in the news and media category. While alternatives like "a gasp" or "a sudden intake of air" exist, "a sharp breath" effectively conveys immediacy and emotional intensity. Use it to enhance your writing by adding depth to character reactions and pivotal narrative moments.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a gasp

A shorter, more abrupt intake of breath, often indicating surprise or shock.

a quick intake of air

Focuses on the act of breathing in, highlighting speed and volume.

a sudden inhalation

Emphasizes the unexpected nature of the breathing action.

a catching of breath

Suggests a brief pause or interruption in breathing, perhaps due to emotion.

a startled breath

Specifically indicates that the breath is a reaction to being surprised.

a gasp of air

Implies a desperate need for air, possibly due to exertion or fear.

an audible intake of breath

Highlights that the breath is loud enough to be heard, adding a sense of drama.

a sucking in of air

Describes the act of drawing air in sharply, possibly through the mouth.

a convulsive breath

Suggests a more forceful and uncontrolled breathing action.

a fluttery breath

Implies a quick, light, and uneven breath, possibly from anxiety or excitement.

FAQs

How can I effectively use "a sharp breath" in a sentence?

Use "a sharp breath" to describe a sudden intake of air, usually in response to something startling or emotional. For example, "She took "a sharp breath" when she saw the accident".

What are some alternatives to using the phrase "a sharp breath"?

You can use alternatives such as "a gasp", "a sudden intake of air", or "a startled breath" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is there a difference between "a sharp breath" and "a deep breath"?

Yes, "a sharp breath" implies a quick, often involuntary intake of air due to surprise or shock, while "a deep breath" suggests a slow, deliberate inhalation often used to calm oneself.

Which is correct, "take a sharp breath" or "draw a sharp breath"?

Both "take "a sharp breath"" and "draw "a sharp breath"" are correct and commonly used, although "take" might be slightly more frequent.