breathing apparatus

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "breathing apparatus" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to refer to devices that assist with breathing, often in medical or safety contexts. Example: "The diver checked his breathing apparatus before descending into the water."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Academia

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

Tanks, goggles, breathing apparatus, the whole nine.

The New York Times

Breathing apparatus was available for contractors.

The Guardian

I didn't have any breathing apparatus, just a mask.

The Guardian

"The breathing apparatus they had is almost identical to what is used in space.

The New Yorker

"A company might say, 'We're developing a new underwater breathing apparatus,' " he said.

The New York Times

Favorite Steampunk item: My husband made a big Victorian suit with a breathing apparatus attached.

The New York Times - Magazine

"She doesn't use any breathing apparatus, so it looks authentic," Ms. Fitzgerald said.

The New York Times - Arts

As Semenov reveals, their tentacles often end up wound around his breathing apparatus.

The Guardian

For extra safety, each member of the group had an Avalung breathing apparatus on his pack.

The New York Times - Travel

It was a self-contained breathing apparatus using compressed air, not an oxygen mask.

The New York Times

Crews wearing breathing apparatus used jets to extinguish the fire on each floor of the building.

The Guardian

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing safety protocols in hazardous environments, use "breathing apparatus" to emphasize the presence of equipment ensuring breathable air. For example, in fire safety reports or industrial safety manuals.

Common error

Don't use "breathing apparatus" as a generic term for all respiratory aids. Be specific about the type of equipment when describing medical treatments or assistance, such as using "oxygen mask" instead if that's the specific device.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "breathing apparatus" functions primarily as a noun phrase, identifying a device or equipment used to facilitate or assist breathing. Ludwig examples show its use in describing equipment for firefighters, divers, and patients needing respiratory support.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

45%

Academia

25%

Encyclopedias

10%

Less common in

Science

10%

Wiki

5%

Formal & Business

5%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "breathing apparatus" is a common and grammatically sound term used to describe equipment designed to provide breathable air, often in hazardous or oxygen-deficient environments. Ludwig's analysis indicates that it functions as a noun phrase, primarily used in news, academic, and encyclopedia contexts. Its register is generally neutral, suitable for both formal and informal use, although more prevalent in technical or professional contexts. When writing, be precise and avoid overgeneralizing its use; specify the exact equipment if needed. Ludwig AI confirms the correctness and usability of this phrase in various contexts.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

scuba gear

Specifically refers to self-contained underwater breathing apparatus.

self-contained breathing device

Device with its own air or oxygen supply for use in hazardous environments.

respiratory equipment

Broader term that includes various devices used for breathing assistance.

respirator

A device designed to protect the wearer from inhaling harmful substances, providing clean air to breathe.

oxygen tank

Specifically refers to the container holding oxygen for breathing.

oxygen mask

A mask that covers the nose and mouth and provides oxygen.

diving gear

Refers to equipment used in diving, often including breathing apparatus.

ventilation equipment

Equipment used to provide or assist with breathing, often in medical settings.

air supply system

A system that provides a source of breathable air.

supplemental oxygen

The provision of extra oxygen to support breathing.

FAQs

How is "breathing apparatus" typically used in a sentence?

The phrase "breathing apparatus" is often used to describe equipment that provides breathable air in hazardous environments or underwater. For example, "Firefighters use a "breathing apparatus" to enter smoke-filled buildings."

What are some alternatives to "breathing apparatus"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "respiratory equipment", "scuba gear", or "oxygen tank".

When should I use "breathing apparatus" versus "respirator"?

"Breathing apparatus" generally refers to self-contained equipment providing breathable air, often in hazardous conditions. A "respirator" can be a broader term, including devices that filter air or supply clean air from a separate source.

Is "breathing apparatus" a formal or informal term?

"Breathing apparatus" is a neutral term suitable for both formal and informal contexts, though it is more commonly used in technical or safety-related discussions. In casual conversation, simpler terms like "oxygen mask" might be preferred.