Chinese Grammar Reference logo

    Chinese Grammar

    Expressing 'to breathe' with 呼吸 (hūxī)

    Actions & Events

    Structure

    Subject + 呼吸

    Explanation

    呼吸 (hūxī) is a verb meaning "to breathe." It can also function as a noun meaning "breath" or "breathing." It is used in both literal and figurative contexts, such as 忘记了呼吸 (forgot to breathe), which vividly conveys intense surprise or awe.

    Examples

    • 深呼吸一下，不要太紧张。

      Shēn hūxī yīxià, bùyào tài jǐnzhāng.

      Take a deep breath and don't be too nervous.

    • 跑完步以后，我的呼吸变得很快。

      Pǎo wán bù yǐhòu, wǒ de hūxī biàn de hěn kuài.

      After running, my breathing became very fast.

    • 她看到那个惊喜，差点忘记了呼吸。

      Tā kàn dào nàge jīngxǐ, chàdiǎn wàngjì le hūxī.

      When she saw the surprise, she almost forgot to breathe.

    Expressing 'to breathe' with 呼吸 (hūxī) | Chinese Grammar