Quick Tip: “Breath” vs. “Breathe”

Just a note from your curmudgeonly neighborhood proofreader: the words “breathe” and “breath” are not interchangeable, and the one is not an archaic or European spelling of the other. They both have their purpose.

“Breathe” is a verb. You breathe deeply. You breathe more clearly after taking a decongestant.

“Breath” is a noun. You take a breath when you breathe. We say something is a breath of fresh air. You curse pedantic, pain-in-the-butt proofreaders under your breath.

Got it? Good.

I’m glad we had this little chat. Carry on, now.

spacer

4 comments on “Quick Tip: “Breath” vs. “Breathe”

  1. Cranky Robert

    Me flunk English? That’s unpossible!

  2. jason

    There always possibilities, my young apprentice.

  3. Brian Greenberg

    Tune in next week, when Jason discusses “effect” and “affect.”
    😉

  4. jason

    Hm. Not a bad idea, actually… 🙂