catch the breeze

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "catch the breeze" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used in contexts related to enjoying a light wind or feeling relaxed and carefree, often associated with outdoor activities. Example: "As we sailed across the lake, we could feel the sun on our faces and catch the breeze in our hair."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Travel

Lifestyle

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

22 human-written examples

They look down on me, huge discs heavy with seed and gently creaking as they catch the breeze.

The Guardian - Lifestyle

Tomb scenes that show such houses also demonstrate that windows were placed high to reduce sunlight and that hooded vents on roofs were used to catch the breeze.

Encyclopedia Britannica

He was sitting in his second-floor office at the time, the windows of the Palladian mansion facing south, to catch the breeze.

The New York Times - Travel

These hollow stems stand high above the general canopy of the rushes and catch the breeze with its cargo of innocent flies.

The Guardian

One Indian-summer night, her family propped open the back door of the brownstone to catch the breeze from the yard.

The New York Times

The architects imagined soaring Moorish arches and huge windows that faced out on to lush vegetation, with water running into fountains and perfect ventilation to catch the breeze.

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

38 human-written examples

At the outdoor tables you can catch the breezes off the water or people-watch.

The New York Times - Travel

Its fierce head sways and dips when a wooden rudder protruding from the back of its neck catches the breeze.

The New York Times

Fortounis's corner from the left was whipped in and it also caught the breeze back towards Ospina's goal.

The Guardian - Sport

Derek Lam, a hitherto little-known designer, caught the breeze with a cotton sheath, splashed with red carnations.

The New York Times

Yet just as her debut had caught the breeze of change, so its contentious follow-up coincided with deep-seated doubts about the uncompleted work that Atticus and his like had left behind.

Independent

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "catch the breeze" to evoke a sense of relaxation and simple pleasure, especially when describing outdoor scenes or activities. For example, "We sat on the porch to catch the breeze after a long day."

Common error

Avoid using "catch the breeze" in formal or technical writing. It's best suited for descriptive or narrative contexts where a touch of informality is appropriate.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "catch the breeze" primarily functions as an idiomatic expression, adding a descriptive element to sentences. It evokes a feeling of relaxation and enjoying a gentle wind. This is supported by Ludwig AI, which confirms its correct usage in written English.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

50%

Travel

20%

Wiki

10%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

3%

Academia

3%

Formal & Business

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "catch the breeze" is a common idiomatic expression that conveys the simple pleasure of experiencing a gentle wind. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability in written English. Predominantly found in News & Media and Travel contexts, it is best suited for descriptive and narrative writing, adding a touch of informality. While alternatives like "feel the breeze" or "enjoy the breeze" exist, "catch the breeze" uniquely captures the act of actively seeking and appreciating the wind's coolness. It evokes a feeling of relaxation and simple enjoyment in various scenarios, from sitting on a porch to designing buildings that maximize natural ventilation.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

feel the breeze

A more literal description of experiencing a light wind.

enjoy the breeze

Focuses on the pleasurable aspect of the breeze.

soak up the breeze

Emphasizes fully experiencing and enjoying the breeze.

bask in the breeze

Similar to soaking up, but suggests a more relaxed and leisurely enjoyment.

let the breeze wash over

Implies a refreshing and cleansing effect from the breeze.

relish the breeze

Highlights the appreciation for the coolness and comfort provided by the breeze.

take in the breeze

Suggests actively perceiving and appreciating the breeze.

get a breath of fresh air

Focuses on the revitalizing aspect of the breeze and fresh air.

feel the gentle wind

A more descriptive and less idiomatic way of saying "catch the breeze".

enjoy the light wind

Similar to "feel the gentle wind", but emphasizes the enjoyment of the wind.

FAQs

How can I use "catch the breeze" in a sentence?

You can use "catch the breeze" to describe enjoying a light wind, such as "We opened the windows to catch the breeze on a hot day."

What does "catch the breeze" mean?

The phrase "catch the breeze" means to experience and enjoy a gentle wind, often for comfort or relaxation.

What can I say instead of "catch the breeze"?

You can use alternatives like "feel the breeze", "enjoy the breeze", or "get a breath of fresh air" depending on the context.

Is "catch the breeze" formal or informal?

The phrase "catch the breeze" is generally considered informal and is best used in descriptive or narrative writing rather than formal or technical contexts.