respira hondo
/respiɾa ondo/from spelling rules
The English phrase "take a deep breath" is translated into Spanish as respira hondo.
This phrase is used to instruct someone to inhale a large amount of air, typically for the purpose of relaxing or preparing themselves for a specific situation.
What does it mean word for word?
The phrase consists of the imperative verb respira (breathe) and the adverb hondo (deeply).
Which one should you use?
While respira hondo is the default, you may also see respira profundo, which is a common alternative used interchangeably in many regions. There are also several variations depending on whether you are being formal or addressing a group of people.
How does it change in a sentence?
If you are addressing a group of people, use the plural form respiren hondo.
Did you know?
- In Spanish, hondo refers to physical depth, but it is also used metaphorically in phrases like en lo hondo, which describes a feeling deep within one's soul.
- The word hondo starts with a silent 'h', which is a remnant of the initial 'f' found in the Latin root fundus and the Spanish noun fondo.
- Depending on the region, using respira profundo instead of respira hondo can signal a shift toward a more formal or clinical tone, such as in a doctor's office.
Examples in context
- Ahora respira hondo.Now, take a deep breath.This sentence is useful for practicing the phrase respira hondo.Tatoeba #13559892 by Seael, translation #3563783 by CK
- Tranquilo(a). Respira profundamente y tómate un descanso breve. Luego, podrás concentrarte mejor.Calm down. Take a deep breath and take a short break. Then, you will be able to concentrate better.
- Respira hondo antes de empezar el examen.Take a deep breath before starting the exam.
- Solo respira hondo y trata de relajarte.Just take a deep breath and try to relax.
Example conversation
Lucía is helping Alejandro calm down before a public speech.
- LucíaEstás muy nervioso, Alejandro.You are very nervous, Alejandro.
- AlejandroSí, tengo mucho miedo.Yes, I am very afraid.
- LucíaNo pasa nada, solo respira hondo.It is okay, just take a deep breath.
- AlejandroTienes razón, lo intentaré.You are right, I will try.
Sources
- IPA marked “from spelling rules” is derived from standard Spanish spelling, where Wiktionary gives none.
- Example sentences: Tatoeba CC BY 2.0 FR.
