What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
breathe
Example
Take a deep breath and try to relax. [breathe: verb]
Example
She could hear him breathing heavily after running up the stairs. [breathing: present participle]
respire
Example
Humans respire by inhaling oxygen and exhaling carbon dioxide. [respire: verb]
Example
The leaves of the plant respire through tiny pores called stomata. [respire: verb]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Breathe is the more common word used in everyday language, while respire is less common and typically used in scientific or technical contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between breathe and respire?
While breathe is versatile and can be used in both formal and informal contexts, respire is more formal and often used in scientific or academic settings.
