Breathe vs Breath…make it simple

People often struggle when choosing whether to use “breathe” or “breath” in a sentence. The difference between these two words is that “breathe” is a verb (to do something) and “breath” is a noun (can be counted).

The easiest way to make it a simple choice is to just say it out loud. If you read your sentence and say the word with a long “e” sound (breeth), then use the one with an “e” at the end (breathe). If not, then use the one without an “e” (breath).

Breathe
Examples: The hug was so tight, I could barely breathe. I like to breathe deeply when I exercise. Did you see him breathe?

Breath
Examples: She said to take a breath before speaking. I took two breaths and then read the sentence out loud. I could see my breath.

When you’re trying to decide which word to choose, breathe in deeply, count your breaths, and remember that the “e” makes the all of the difference.

Jill

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