PhrasesHub

a breath of fresh air

    Definitions

      • something new and refreshing
        Referring to something or someone that brings a new and positive change, providing relief or a welcome change from what has been dull or monotonous

      • someone who is pleasant and likable
        Describing a person who is charming, friendly, and enjoyable to be around, often bringing a positive energy to a situation

    Examples of a breath of fresh air

    • She was a breath of fresh air in our team meeting.

      This person brought new and positive energy to the meeting, which was a welcome change from the usual monotonous and dull meetings.

    • After a long day at work, the cool evening breeze was a breath of fresh air for my tired lungs.

      The fresh air felt refreshing and invigorating after being cooped up indoors all day.

    • His candid and honest opinions were a breath of fresh air in a group of people who were too politically correct.

      This person's genuine and authentic views were a welcome contrast to the artificial and cautious opinions of others.

    • Her positive attitude was a breath of fresh air during a difficult and stressful project.

      Her optimism and upbeat outlook lifted the mood and provided much-needed motivation to the team.

    • Jane's positive attitude was a breath of fresh air in the department.

      Jane's optimistic outlook was a welcome change from the negativity that had been pervading the department for some time. Her enthusiasm and energy lifted the mood of everyone around her. It was as if a fresh breeze had blown through the office, clearing out the stale air and leaving everyone feeling reinvigorated and hopeful.

    • After weeks of gray, rainy weather, the sunny afternoon felt like a breath of fresh air.

      The sudden burst of sunshine on a gloomy day was a welcome change from the monotony of gray skies and rain. It was as if a gust of fresh air had suddenly swept through the air, leaving a feeling of renewal and positivity in its wake. The warmth of the sun on the skin and the sound of birds singing felt like a rejuvenating experience, restoring vitality and energy to the body.

    • The new CEO's innovative ideas were a breath of fresh air for the company.

      The CEO's forward-thinking approach and creative ideas were a refreshing departure from the more traditional methods that had been the norm in the company. They brought a new vitality and energy to the organization, inspiring employees and encouraging them to think outside the box. It was as if a fresh wind had swept through the company, blowing away the old and stale ways of doing things and paving the way for a brighter future.

    • The weekend trip to the countryside was like a breath of fresh air for the urban-dweller.

      The peaceful beauty of the countryside, with its rolling green hills and clear blue skies, was a welcome change from the hustle and bustle of city life. It was as if a fresh breeze had blown away the noise and chaos of the urban environment, leaving a feeling of calm and serenity in its place. The fresh country air, filled with the smells of blooming flowers and ripening fruits, was a refreshing and invigorating experience, reawakening the senses and restoring a sense of balance and harmony.


    Conclusion

    The idiom "a breath of fresh air" can be used to describe something that is new and refreshing, providing a welcome change from what has been dull or monotonous. It can also refer to a person who is pleasant and likable, often bringing a positive energy to a situation.

    Origin of "a breath of fresh air"

    The origin of the idiom "a breath of fresh air" can be traced back to the literal meaning of the phrase. In a literal sense, taking a breath of fresh air can provide relief and a sense of rejuvenation, especially after being in a stuffy or unpleasant environment. Over time, the idiom has been figuratively used to describe anything or anyone that brings a similar sense of relief and rejuvenation. The expression has become a common and widely understood metaphor in the English language, often used to convey the idea of something new and positive. For example, when referring to a new idea or a person who brings a positive change, the idiom "a breath of fresh air" is frequently used to express this sentiment.