don't hold your breath
Don't wait. Said cynically to suggest that what has just been mentioned is unlikely to happen soon or at all.
Meaning adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
“They promised a refund, but don't hold your breath.”
“The bus is usually late, so don't hold your breath for an early arrival.”
“The boss said he might give us a raise next year, but honestly, don't hold your breath.”
“My neighbor keeps saying he will fix the broken fence this weekend, but I would not hold my breath if I were you.”
“She told me she would call back in five minutes, but since she is always busy, don't hold your breath waiting for the phone to ring.”
“While the politician promised immediate reform to the tax code, seasoned observers advised voters not to hold their breath.”
The expression is an instruction against self-asphyxiation while waiting for an unlikely event. It suggests that if one were to hold one's breath until the expected occurrence actually took place, one would expire before it happened. The phrase functions as a brief reminder that the wait will be significantly longer than one's remaining oxygen supply.
- 01
and I don't mean maybe
Indicating that one is serious and not joking about a matter.
- 02
apron-string hold
An estate held by a man during his wife's life.
- 03
breath of fresh air
Something relieving, refreshing, or new.
- 04
buy and hold
A passive investment strategy where an investor purchases an asset and retains it for many years, rather than trading it frequently.
- 05
don't call me sir, I work for a living
Used by senior enlisted military personnel to indicate that they are not commissioned officers.
- 06
don't call us, we'll call you
A stereotypical statement from a hiring organization to a potential candidate, suggesting that the candidate will not be hired.
- 07
don't drop the soap
Used as a mockery to someone who is about to be or should be confined in prison.
- 08
don't get someone started
Used to attempt to avoid or abbreviate a discussion that speaker or hearer may wish to avoid.
Last updated August 10, 2026