ほっと

An onomatopoeic adverb expressing the feeling of relief, like sighing.

Common patterns

• ほっとする (to feel relieved)
• ほっとした (felt relieved)
• ほっと一息(ひといき) (a moment of relief)
• ほっと胸(むね)を撫(な)で下(お)ろす (to breathe a sigh of relief)

Usage

• Mimics the sound/feeling of exhaling in relief
• Often used after tense situations resolve positively

Similar words

• 安心(あんしん)する (to feel at ease - more formal)
• ほっとする (to feel relieved - onomatopoeic, more emotional)