Catch one's breath

verb

Definitions

1.verbTo take a break, or rest while doing a strenuous activity, so that one's breathing becomes easier

"They stopped for a moment at the end of the set to catch their breath before resuming play."

2.verbTo take in a breath sharply and hold it, usually in reaction to a sudden shock, or surprise

"John caught his breath when he saw the bottle rolling unstoppably towards the opposite edge of the table."

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