last breath

USAGE SUMMARY

"last breath" is correct and usable in written English.
You can use it in a literary context to refer to the moment of death, or it can be used figuratively when referring to someone giving it their all in an activity or endeavor. Example: With his last breath, he completed the race and won the gold medal.

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

58 human-written examples

It's breathing its last breath".

The New York Times

When or where we will breathe our last breath.

The New York Times

"I can see breathing my last breath here," he said.

The New York Times

Now AA is breathing it's last breath.

Huffington Post

Desdemona remains loyal to her last breath.

The New Yorker

Her daughter took her last breath.

The New Yorker

"I will fight to the last breath".

The New York Times

He takes his last breath".

The New York Times

"We'll fight to our last breath".

The Guardian

"We will continue until our last breath".

The New York Times

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

1 human-written examples

Last-breath breathable.

Vice

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Employ the phrase sparingly to maintain its impact. Overuse can diminish its emotional resonance.

Common error

Avoid using "last breath" in situations that lack genuine significance. This phrase carries a heavy emotional charge and should not be applied to minor inconveniences or insignificant endings.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "last breath" primarily functions as a noun phrase, often acting as the object of a verb or preposition. Ludwig AI confirms its correct usage. It describes the final act of respiration, often associated with death or the end of a struggle.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

90%

Science

5%

Formal & Business

2%

Less common in

Encyclopedias

1%

Wiki

1%

Social Media

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "last breath" is a common and grammatically correct expression, primarily used in News & Media, to describe the final act of breathing, often associated with death, finality, or ultimate effort. Ludwig AI confirms this. While the phrase can be used in formal contexts, overusing it in trivial situations should be avoided. Related phrases like "final gasp" or "dying breath" offer similar meanings, although the emotional intensity of "last breath" makes it especially potent in narratives and obituaries, where it is intended to add emotional weight and finality.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

final gasp

Focuses on the act of breathing, specifically the final inhalation.

dying breath

Emphasizes the breath that occurs at the point of death.

final moments

Shifts the focus to the period immediately before death, rather than just the breath itself.

point of death

Abstracts the concept to the moment when life ends.

end of life

Refers to the conclusion of someone's existence.

ultimate sacrifice

Highlights a final act of selflessness, potentially leading to death.

death throes

Refers to the violent or painful movements before death.

last act

Broadens the scope to include any final deed or event.

final chapter

Uses a literary metaphor to represent the end of a life or period.

swan song

Figuratively denotes a final performance or creative work.

FAQs

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

You can use "last breath" to describe the moment of death, as in "He took his "last breath" peacefully in his sleep", or to describe a final effort, as in "She fought until her "last breath" to protect her family".

What are some alternatives to "last breath"?

Depending on the context, you can use alternatives such as "final gasp", "dying breath", or "final moments".

Is it appropriate to use "last breath" in formal writing?

Yes, "last breath" can be appropriate in formal writing, particularly in obituaries, historical accounts, or literary analyses, where it adds a sense of finality and gravitas. However, consider the overall tone and audience.

What is the difference between "last breath" and "final breath"?

"Last breath" and "final breath" are essentially synonymous and can be used interchangeably. Both refer to the last act of breathing before death. The choice between them often comes down to personal preference or stylistic considerations.