bated breath

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "bated breath" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
This phrase is generally used to describe a feeling of tension or suspense that is held in anticipation of something. For example, "The crowd watched with bated breath as the final seconds of the game ticked away."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

With bated breath we await the next riposte.

The New Yorker

With bated breath, many political commentators waited for an upset.

The Guardian - Opinion

AS THE OPEC cartel met this week in Vienna, the world watched with bated breath.

The Economist

"We are waiting with incredibly bated breath to hear the outcome," Mr. Brown said.

The New York Times

The arguments thus far: With bated breath we await the next riposte.

The New Yorker

With bated breath, the chest was lightly slapped.

Clinical interventions in aging

Bated breath.

The Guardian

We await with bated breath.

The Guardian

We all wait with bated breath.

The New York Times

Norway awaits their answer with bated breath.

Independent

I'm watching her with bated breath".

The New Yorker

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Ensure you are using "bated" (meaning restrained or suppressed), and not the homophone "baited" (meaning to tempt or lure). "Bated breath" means holding your breath in anticipation, not having your breath 'lured' somewhere.

Common error

The most common mistake is using "baited breath" instead of "bated breath". Remember that "bated" means suppressed or lessened, while "baited" means to entice or lure. So, always double-check your spelling to ensure the correct meaning.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "bated breath" functions as an adverbial phrase modifying a verb. It typically describes the manner in which someone is waiting or watching, adding emphasis to the anticipation or suspense of the moment. As Ludwig AI confirms, this phrase is frequently used in written English.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

85%

Science

8%

Formal & Business

3%

Less common in

Academia

1%

Wiki

1%

Encyclopedias

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "bated breath" is a common and grammatically correct idiom used to describe a state of high anticipation or suspense. As Ludwig AI confirms, it's widely employed across various contexts, especially in news and media. The most common error is confusing "bated" with "baited", which completely changes the meaning. To enhance your writing, use "bated breath" to add drama and excitement to a scene where the outcome is uncertain. Alternatives like "with anticipation" or "in suspense" can be used depending on the nuance you wish to convey. Remember that mastering such phrases can significantly improve the impact and clarity of your communication.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

with baited breath

This is a common misspelling of "bated breath", thus retains very high similarity but is grammatically incorrect.

holding one's breath

This literal interpretation focuses on the physical act of holding breath due to nervousness or excitement.

with breathless anticipation

This option intensifies the feeling of anticipation, adding a sense of excitement and eagerness.

in anxious anticipation

This version underlines the anxious or worried aspect of waiting.

in suspense

This phrase highlights the uncertainty and tension while waiting for a resolution or outcome.

in eager expectation

This phrase stresses the positive aspect of looking forward to something, reducing the sense of anxiety.

with anticipation

This alternative focuses on the feeling of looking forward to something, omitting the element of suspense or anxiety.

with mounting excitement

Here, the feeling of excitement is emphasized, suggesting that it's steadily increasing.

on tenterhooks

This idiom suggests a state of nervous anticipation or anxiety, emphasizing the discomfort of waiting.

in breathless silence

This phrase shifts the focus to the quiet, intense atmosphere of anticipation.

FAQs

How can I use "bated breath" in a sentence?

You can use "bated breath" to describe a feeling of anticipation, suspense, or excitement. For example: "The audience watched with "bated breath" as the magician began his final trick".

What's the difference between "bated breath" and "baited breath"?

"Bated breath" refers to holding one's breath in anticipation or excitement, while "baited breath" is a common misspelling that doesn't make sense in this context. The correct phrase is always "bated breath".

What are some alternatives to saying "waiting with bated breath"?

Instead of "waiting with bated breath", you could say "waiting "with anticipation"", "in suspense", or "in eager expectation" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "bated breath" formal or informal?

"Bated breath" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts. It is frequently found in news articles, literature, and everyday conversation, indicating its versatility. The register would be considered "neutral".