respira e basta
The English phrase "just breathe" is translated into Italian as respira e basta.
This is an encouraging phrase used to tell someone to calm down or relax by focusing on their breathing.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase respira e basta can be understood literally as "breathe and just that".
Which one should you use?
You can also use the shorter Respira to say "just breathe" informally. If you are addressing a group of people or using a formal tone, you should use respirate e basta instead.
How does it change in a sentence?
respira is the informal singular imperative, used when speaking to one person you know well.
Did you know?
- The word basta is a powerful standalone command in Italy, often shouted to mean 'Stop it!' or 'Enough!', which gives the phrase a sense of finality.
- If you are trying to soothe someone in a medical or high-stress setting, Italians might prefer the phrase fai un respiro profondo which means 'take a deep breath'.
- In Italian, the word respiro can mean both the physical act of breathing and the 'breath' or 'breathing room' one needs in a metaphorical sense, such as a break from a stressful job.
Examples in context
- Respira, tutto andrà bene.Just breathe, everything will be fine.
- Calmati, respira e basta.Calm down, just breathe.
- Non farti prendere dal panico, respira e basta.Don't panic, just breathe.
- Sei troppo agitata, respira e basta.You are too agitated, just breathe.
Example conversation
Sofia is feeling overwhelmed before a big presentation and Lorenzo tries to calm her down.
- LorenzoSofia, stai calma.Sofia, stay calm.
- SofiaSono troppo nervosa per parlare!I am too nervous to speak!
- LorenzoRespira e basta, ce la farai.Just breathe, you will do it.
- SofiaGrazie Lorenzo, ci provo.Thanks Lorenzo, I will try.
