What does “Breathe your last” mean?
"Breathe your last" means to die.
What context can I use the in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
Example
He was so sick that he knew he would breathe his last soon.
He was so sick that he knew he would breathe his last soon.
Example
The old man breathed his last peacefully in his sleep.
The old man breathed his last peacefully in his sleep.
Example
She held her husband's hand as he breathed his last
She held her husband's hand as he breathed his last
Is “Breathe your last” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“Breathe your last” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.
How would I use “Breathe your last” effectively in context?
You can use "Breathe your last" to describe someone's final moments or their death. It emphasizes the idea of taking one's last breath before passing away. For example, if someone asks about the old man's condition, you might say, 'He was so sick that he knew he would breathe his last soon.'
- 1Health
After a long battle with illness, she finally breathed her last surrounded by her loved ones.
After a long battle with illness, she finally breathed her last surrounded by her loved ones.
- 2Loss
The family gathered at the hospital as their beloved grandmother breathed her last.
The family gathered at the hospital as their beloved grandmother breathed her last.
- 3Comfort
She held her husband's hand as he peacefully breathed his last.
She held her husband's hand as he peacefully breathed his last.
Similar phrases to “Breathe your last”:
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “Breathe your last” come from?
The origin of the phrase "Breathe your last" is unknown.
Is “Breathe your last” common in everyday conversation?
The phrase "Breathe your last" is not commonly used in everyday conversation. It is more poetic and dramatic, often found in literature or formal contexts.
What tone does “Breathe your last” have?
"Breathe your last" conveys a tone of finality and solemnity. It is used to describe the moment of death and is often associated with sadness and grief.
Can “Breathe your last” be used in informal and formal settings?
The phrase "Breathe your last" is more formal in nature. It is not typically used in casual conversations but can be found in literature, poetry, or in more serious discussions about death and loss.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
It is commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'He took his last breath and "breathed his last".' However, in certain contexts, it can be understood even if used alone, such as saying 'He "breathed his last"' to imply someone has passed away.