With Bated Breath 🌬️
Definition:
“To wait with bated breath” means to wait in anticipation, often in a state of anxious excitement. The phrase paints a vivid picture of someone literally holding their breath in suspense.
Related Terms and Similar Phrases:
- On the edge of one’s seat: Equally suspenseful, but conjures images of movie-theater chairs rather than respiratory restraint.
- Pins and needles: Typically describes the sense of tingling anticipation.
- Heart in one’s mouth: Another cliché hinting at anticipation, though it might seem slightly more gruesome.
- Waiting with bated breath: The phrase itself owes much to creative wordplay and playwright William Shakespeare’s “The Merchant of Venice.”
Synonyms:
- Anticipatory
- Expectant
- Breathless (not to be confused with aerobic deficiency)
- Eager
Antonyms:
- Unconcerned
- Indifferent
- Nonchalant
Humor-filled Quotes:
“Waiting with bated breath is like offering up lungs as collateral; uncomfortable but highly engaging.” – Lexical Laughter
Proverbs and Wisdom:
“Patience is bitter, but its fruit is sweet.” – Aristotle
The ideal quip for when you’ve been holding your breath for something good.
Literature, Books, Songs, Poetry, and Movies:
- Books: “The Merchant of Venice” by William Shakespeare, where the phrase ostensibly originated.
- Movies: “Inception” - A film where many scenes will have you truly sitting “with bated breath.”
- Songs: “I Can’t Wait Here Anymore” by Steve Earle expresses an overwhelming sense of anticipation.
- Poetry: Read “The Road Not Taken” by Robert Frost for a contemplative take on decisions and patience.
Quizzes 🌐📚
### Which of these is not a synonym for 'with bated breath'?
- [x] Unconcerned
- [ ] Anticipatory
- [ ] Breathless
- [ ] Expectant
> **Explanation:** "Unconcerned" is the odd one out as it means not worried or indifferent, which is the exact opposite of an anticipatory state.
### What does 'with bated breath' imply?
- [ ] Lethargy
- [ ] Disinterest
- [x] Anxious anticipation
- [ ] Boredom
> **Explanation:** To await with bated breath implies one is in a state of anxious anticipation, possibly on edge and ready for what comes next.
### True or False: The phrase 'with bated breath' originated from Charles Dickens' writings.
- [x] False
- [ ] True
> **Explanation:** The phrase famously originated from William Shakespeare's "The Merchant of Venice," not Charles Dickens.
Inspirational Thought-Provoking Farewell:
“Language is not just a medium. It’s a vessel. From expressing sheer joy to embodying anxious anticipation, our words weave the essence of human experience.”
Until next time, keep your breath where it belongs—unless, of course, you’re waiting on something truly exciting!
