Don't hold your breath
/dəʊnt həʊld jɔː breθ/informalUK · US
What does “Don't hold your breath” mean?
Don't hold your breath means that something is unlikely to happen soon, or may not happen at all
“Don't hold your breath” lowers someone's expectations. You might say it about a late delivery, an unreliable promise or an apology that never arrives.
It often sounds dry or sarcastic. If someone is genuinely worried, a direct explanation of the delay may be kinder.
When do people say it?
Use it as a sceptical reply to a promise or hopeful prediction. It can sound dismissive.
“He says he'll pay us back tomorrow, but don't hold your breath.”
Is it formal or informal?
Register: informal. It is most at home in everyday conversation rather than formal writing. Most common in UK and US.
Where does it come from?
The joke is that you might run out of breath before the promised thing happens.
Origin confidence: Disputed; treat with caution
How do you say “Don't hold your breath” in other languages?
Last updated 2026-09-19