Wednesday, June 17, 2015

baited breath/bated breath: Common Errors in English Usage Entry for Wednesday, June 17, 2015

baited breath/bated breath
Although the odor of the chocolate truffle you just ate may be irresistible bait to your beloved, the proper expression is “bated breath.” “Bated” here means “held, abated.” You do something with “bated breath” when you’re so tense you’re holding your breath.

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