TAKE BREATH AWAY

National Parks

đź“– Definition

To 'take someone’s breath away' means to cause someone to feel intense emotion or amazement, often due to beauty or surprise.

Examples in context

đź“– Definition

To 'take someone’s breath away' means to cause someone to feel intense emotion or amazement, often due to beauty or surprise.

đź“ť Grammar Info

Separable
No
The object (breath) always follows the verb.
Register
Neutral
Can be used in both formal and informal settings.
Transitive
Yes
It requires a direct object (someone’s breath).

đź“Š Conjugation Table

Tense Form Example
Present Simple take breath away The stunning view takes my breath away.
Past Simple took breath away The performance took everyone's breath away.
Present Continuous taking breath away The dancer was taking breath away with her grace.
Present Perfect have taken breath away The paintings have always taken breath away.

đź’ˇ When to Use

Experiencing beautiful scenery
Use when witnessing nature or a view that is exceptionally beautiful and evokes amazement.
Example: "The sunset over the ocean took my breath away."
Watching outstanding performances
Use when a performance is so impressive that it leaves you in awe and speechless.
Example: "Her piano solo was so emotional, it took the audience’s breath away."
Encountering extraordinary events
Use when witnessing an event that is surprising or extraordinary in nature.
Example: "The sight of the fireworks display took our breath away."

⚠️ Common Mistakes

Incorrect object placement
❌ Wrong: The scenery takes away my breath.
âś… Correct: The scenery takes my breath away.
đź’ˇ Tip: Remember to place 'breath' before 'away'.
Wrong tense usage
❌ Wrong: The singer is take my breath away.
âś… Correct: The singer is taking my breath away.
đź’ˇ Tip: Use continuous form with ongoing actions.
Missing object
❌ Wrong: The sight took away.
âś… Correct: The sight took my breath away.
đź’ˇ Tip: Ensure to include 'breath' as the object.
Practice

TAKE BREATH AWAY - IN PRACTICE

Study Method Proposal

  1. Listen and repeat the audio as many times as needed to improve your pronunciation
  2. Use the audio as a dictation exercise, trying to write what you hear and understand
  3. Create a new sentence following the structure of the example sentences

Examples in Context

Synonyms & Antonyms

Synonyms

astonish amaze

Antonyms

bore

Quick Check

Complete the sentence with the correct phrasal verb:

"The stunning landscape ___ my breath away."

take
take breath away
taking
taken

"Moments that take your breath away are life’s reminders of beauty and wonder, urging us to pause and appreciate the now."

In Context

In the spring of 1969, astronaut Neil Armstrong prepared for a mission that would take the world’s breath away. The Apollo 11 mission was on course to land the first humans on the Moon. As Armstrong and his team undertook intense training, the anticipation reached fever pitch. People worldwide were glued to their televisions, waiting for July 20th. As Apollo 11 safely traveled through space, nail-biting moments kept audiences on edge. Then, Armstrong uttered the iconic phrase as he stepped onto the lunar surface: 'That's one small step for man, one giant leap for mankind.' This sight, transmitted live from the Moon, took everyone’s breath away with its historic gravity and sheer achievement. The awe-inspiring moment of human ingenuity and exploration was a testament to humanity's potential, leaving a legacy for generations to come. After the crew’s safe return to Earth, they were welcomed as heroes, their journey having carved a place in history. Armstrong’s small step not only fulfilled a national dream but also showcased the power of human courage and innovation to take breath away, profoundly impacting our perspective on space exploration.

âť“ Frequently Asked Questions about Take Breath Away

What is the origin of 'take breath away'?

+
The expression 'take your breath away' originates from the concept of gasping in awe or surprise, implying a moment so striking it interrupts normal breathing.

Can 'take breath away' be used in formal and informal contexts?

+
Yes, 'take breath away' is versatile and neutral, suitable for both formal and informal settings. It expresses awe or amazement across a wide range of situations.

What is the difference between 'take breath away' and 'astonish'?

+
'Take breath away' often implies visual or emotional beauty that overwhelms, whereas 'astonish' can relate to any surprising or unexpected occurrence or information.

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blow awayknock outbowl oversweep off feetleave speechless
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National Parks Phrasal Verbs - WeeklyCross
Alessandra NĂłbrega
About the Author

Alessandra NĂłbrega

History teacher who fell in love with English! This passion led me to specialize in languages and work on bilingual education projects. With 37 years in education, I believe learning should be meaningful – not just memorization.

Learn more about my journey



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