solo respira
/solo ɾespiɾa/from spelling rules
The English phrase "just breathe" is translated into Spanish as solo respira.
This is an encouraging phrase used to tell someone to stay calm and relax during a stressful moment.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase is composed of solo, which literally means "only" or "just" and respira, which is the imperative form of the verb respirar (to breathe).
Which one should you use?
solo respira uses the informal tú command, which is suitable for friends, family or children. For a group of people, use the plural form solo respiren.
Is it said differently in some regions?
In Latin American countries, especially Argentina, you may see the alternate form solo respirá. In Argentina, it is also common to see the spelling sólo respirá.
How does it change in a sentence?
To address a single person informally, use solo respira. To address a single person formally, use solo respire. To address a group of people, use solo respiren.
How do you pronounce it?
/solo ɾespiɾa/
Did you know?
- Spanish has a specific word, boquear, which describes the act of 'breathing' or gasping for air specifically like a fish out of water.
- The word solo can mean both 'only' and 'alone', making the phrase 'solo respira' a linguistic double entendre that could imply 'breathe alone' or 'just breathe' depending on context.
- While 'solo respira' is a common command, Spanish speakers often use the phrase tranquilo or tranquila to achieve the exact same emotional effect of telling someone to calm down.
Examples in context
- Cuando te sientas abrumado, solo respira y encontrarás la solución.When you feel overwhelmed, just breathe and you will find the solution.
- Amigo, no te preocupes tanto, solo respira y relájate.Friend, don't worry so much, just breathe and relax.
- Después del ejercicio intenso, solo respiré profundamente y me relajé.After intense exercise, I just breathed deeply and relaxed.
- Solo respira y relájate.Just breathe and relax.
- No entres en pánico, solo respira.Don't panic, just breathe.
- Todo estará bien, solo respira.Everything will be fine, just breathe.
Example conversation
Elena is feeling very nervous before her big presentation.
- DanielEstás muy nerviosa, Elena.You are very nervous, Elena.
- ElenaSí, tengo mucho miedo.Yes, I am very afraid.
- DanielSolo respira y verás que puedes.Just breathe and you will see you can do it.
- ElenaGracias, Daniel, lo intentaré.Thanks, Daniel, I will try.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
