PhrasesHub

breath of fresh air

    Definitions

      • someone or something refreshing and new
        To describe a person or thing that is new, different, and brings a sense of renewal or rejuvenation to a situation

      • a change for the better
        To signify a positive change or improvement in a situation or environment

    Examples of breath of fresh air

    • The new CEO is a breath of fresh air in the company.

      This idiom means that the new CEO has brought new and positive energy into the company, making the work environment feel more refreshing and revitalizing. It's as if the company has been breathing stale, old air, but now has been infused with fresh and invigorating air.

    • After a stressful week, spending time in the countryside was a welcome breath of fresh air.

      This idiom also signifies that being in a new and different environment, such as the countryside, has a calming and refreshing effect. It can help to clear one's mind and recharge their energy levels, much like breathing fresh air.

    • The new sales strategy is a breath of fresh air for the struggling company.

      Here, the idiom is used to indicate that the new strategy is innovative and effective, bringing about a needed change that has a positive impact on the company's success. It's as if the company has been struggling to breathe in the old strategy, but now has been given a fresh and invigorating one.

    • The podcast episode was a breath of fresh air compared to the usual boring shows I've been listening to.

      This idiom can also be used to compare something to the stale and uninspiring norm. The podcast episode being described as a breath of fresh air is meant to convey that it was more engaging, interesting, and potentially refreshing compared to the standard shows that the listener is used to.

    • After months of negative news and controversies, Oprah Winfrey's interview with Meghan Markle was a breath of fresh air.

      This example shows how the idiom is used to describe a sudden and welcome change after a long period of unpleasantness. Oprah Winfrey's interview with Meghan Markle was a refreshing and positive event, which provided a break from the continuous stream of negative news and controversies.

    • Following a year of remote learning, finally being back in the classroom felt like a breath of fresh air.

      Here, the idiom is used to describe the sensation of relief and rejuvenation experienced after a long period of isolation and monotony. The return to the physical classroom after a year of remote learning felt like a breath of fresh air, as it provided a change from the monotony and isolation of remote learning.

    • In a world filled with negativity, a kind word or gesture can be a breath of fresh air.

      This example shows how the idiom can be used to describe something that brings positivity and hope to a situation that is otherwise negative. In a world filled with negativity, a simple act of kindness, such as a kind word or gesture, can be a refreshing and uplifting experience, bringing a sense of hope and positivity.

    • After a long and cold winter, the first day of spring felt like a breath of fresh air.

      This example uses the idiom to describe the sensation of rejuvenation and refreshment experienced after a long period of harsh weather. The first day of spring, following a long and cold winter, felt like a breath of fresh air, as the warmer temperatures and blooming flowers brought a sense of rejuvenation and refreshment.


    Conclusion

    The idiom "breath of fresh air" is often used to describe something or someone that is new, different, and brings a sense of renewal or rejuvenation. It can also signify a positive change or improvement in a situation or environment. By using this idiom, speakers can convey a sense of positivity and optimism towards a new or refreshing element that has entered their lives.

    Origin of "breath of fresh air"

    The origin of the idiom "breath of fresh air" can be traced back to the literal meaning of taking in a deep breath of fresh, clean air. This action is often associated with feeling refreshed and rejuvenated, which led to the idiom being used metaphorically to describe something or someone that brings a similar sense of renewal. The idiom has been in use for centuries, with its origins likely rooted in the idea that fresh air is invigorating and beneficial for one's well-being.

    The idiom has since evolved to encompass not just the physical act of breathing in fresh air, but also the metaphorical idea of encountering something new and positive. It has become a common expression in the English language to convey the idea of something or someone being a welcome and beneficial addition to a situation. Overall, the idiom "breath of fresh air" continues to be used widely to describe refreshing and positive influences in various contexts.