able to breathe

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "able to breathe" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it when describing someone's capacity to take in air or when discussing the ability to function or exist in a particular environment. Example: "After the surgery, she was finally able to breathe without any discomfort."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Science

Formal & Business

Wiki

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

"She was not able to breathe.

The New Yorker

"She wasn't able to breathe".

The New York Times

You wouldn't have been able to breathe".

The New York Times

Soon I won't be able to breathe.

The Guardian - Books

"They need to be able to breathe".

The New York Times

At least I'll be able to breathe".

The Guardian - Books

For one thing, a person must be able to breathe.

The New Yorker

It's nice to be able to breathe in bars.

The Economist

"I haven't been able to breathe," he said.

The New York Times - Sports

"With duct cleaners, you won't be able to breathe.

The New York Times

We just want to be able to breathe".

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "able to breathe" in a metaphorical sense (e.g., a business being "able to breathe" financially), ensure the context clearly establishes the analogy. This avoids confusion and enhances the impact of your writing.

Common error

Avoid stating the obvious. Saying someone is "able to breathe" when it's clearly implied can make your writing sound redundant. Instead, focus on situations where breathing is impaired or has become easier after some intervention.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "able to breathe" functions as an adjectival phrase modifying a noun or pronoun. According to Ludwig AI, it describes the capacity or capability of an individual or entity to perform the act of breathing. The numerous examples provided show that the phrase can be used in literal and figurative contexts.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

36%

Science

28%

Wiki

17%

Less common in

Formal & Business

8%

Encyclopedias

5%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "able to breathe" is a grammatically correct and versatile expression used to describe the capacity for respiration, physical well-being, or a metaphorical sense of relief. Ludwig AI confirms its correctness and wide applicability. With a very common frequency, it appears most often in news media and scientific contexts. While it is generally safe to use in a variety of registers, it's important to avoid redundancy by being mindful of the specific context and avoiding stating the obvious. The phrase is commonly employed both literally and figuratively, offering a concise way to communicate the state of being free from respiratory distress or other constraints.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

capable of respiration

Focuses on the physiological capacity to perform respiration.

has the capacity to respire

Emphasizes the inherent ability or potential for breathing.

can inhale and exhale

Describes the physical act of breathing, highlighting both inhalation and exhalation.

not suffocating

Highlights the negative condition of being free from suffocation.

able to draw breath

Focuses on the effort and action of drawing a breath.

in a state of respiration

Describes the ongoing process of breathing.

possessing respiratory function

Highlights the presence of a functional respiratory system.

able to take a breath

Emphasizes the immediate capability to inhale.

not struggling for air

Indicates the absence of difficulty in breathing.

maintaining an open airway

Focuses on the physical state of the respiratory passage.

FAQs

How can I use "able to breathe" in a sentence?

You can use "able to breathe" to describe someone's physical capacity to respire, as in, "After the surgery, he was finally "able to breathe" comfortably". It can also be used metaphorically, such as "The company was "able to breathe" again after securing the new contract".

What are some alternatives to "able to breathe"?

Depending on the context, alternatives include "capable of breathing", "able to respire", or "can inhale and exhale". For metaphorical uses, consider phrases like "able to function", or "able to operate".

Is it redundant to say "able to breathe freely"?

While "able to breathe" already implies a certain level of ease, adding "freely" can emphasize the absence of any obstruction or difficulty. Whether it's redundant depends on the specific context and the degree of emphasis desired. Consider rephrasing if it sounds repetitive.

What does it mean when someone says a situation allows them to "breathe again"?

This phrase typically means that a stressful or difficult situation has eased, providing relief. It's a metaphorical way of saying that someone feels less burdened or constrained, and "able to relax".