auf|atmen
Translation
to breathe a sigh of relief, to heave a sigh of relief
Examples
Nach der Prüfung konnte ich endlich aufatmen.
After the exam, I could finally breathe a sigh of relief.
Alle atmeten auf, als die Gefahr vorbei war.
Everyone breathed a sigh of relief when the danger was over.
Grammar Patterns
to breathe a sigh of relief When he heard the good news, he breathed a sigh of relief.
Similar Words
Synonyms: erleichtert sein, sich entspannen; Antonyms: die Luft anhalten, besorgt sein
Etymology
Composed of the prefix 'auf-' (up, open) and the verb 'atmen' (to breathe). Literally 'to breathe up/out', signifying relief.
Memory Tips
Imagine letting your breath ('atmen') go 'up' ('auf') and out in a big sigh of relief.