Save your breath

Meaning

The idiom "save your breath" is an interjection used to tell someone to stop talking or be quiet, often because they are making a lot of noise or are unnecessarily repeating themselves. It can also be used as a warning or caution to someone about to do something foolish or dangerous.

Usage

• "Save your breath! I already told you that you can't go out tonight."
• "Don't waste your time arguing with him, he's not listening."
• "Save your breath, I already gave you the instructions."
• "Be careful, don't save your breath by jumping off that cliff."
• "Don't save your breath, just tell me what you want to eat for dinner."

Roots and History

The idiom "save your breath" has been in use since at least the 16th century, according to the Oxford English Dictionary. It is believed to have originated from the idea of conserving energy by not speaking too much or taking deep breaths when one is angry or upset. The phrase was commonly used in the past as a warning or caution to someone who might be about to do something reckless or foolish, such as diving into deep water without knowing how to swim. Over time, the meaning of the idiom has evolved slightly, and it is now more commonly used to tell someone to stop talking or be quiet, rather than as a warning or caution about doing something dangerous.

Synonyms in English

• "Be quiet!"
• "Keep your mouth shut."
• "Don't say anything."
• "Shut up."
• "Say nothing."

Synonyms in other languages

• French: "Ne parle pas" (Translation: Don't speak)
• German: "Stumm sein" (Translation: Be quiet)
• Spanish: "Callate" (Translation: Shut up)
• Italian: "Chiudere bocca" (Translation: Close your mouth)
• Portuguese: "Fechar a boca" (Translation: Close your mouth)

Similar Idioms

• stone’s throw

• silence is golden

• scot-free