1.
taking a breath; breathing pause; catching one's breath
A pause to breathe, especially during continuous physical activity such as swimming, singing, or playing a wind instrument. Also used figuratively for any brief pause or respite.
息継ぎをする。
To take a breath.
水泳で息継ぎが上手にできない。
I can't do the breathing technique well in swimming.
彼女は息継ぎもせずに一気にしゃべり続けた。
She kept talking nonstop without even pausing to breathe.
A pause to breathe during continuous activity. Most commonly associated with swimming, singing, and wind instruments.
WORD FORMATION:
息 (breath) + 継ぎ (continuing/connecting)
COMMON PATTERNS:
- 息継ぎをする: to take a breath
- 息継ぎなしで: without pausing for breath
- 息継ぎが上手: good at breathing technique
- 息継ぎもせずに: without even pausing for breath
CONTEXTS:
- 水泳: swimming (proper 息継ぎ is a key beginner skill)
- 歌: singing (breath control between phrases)
- 管楽器: wind instruments
- Figuratively: any brief pause or respite in continuous activity, such as talking nonstop