
Bated
Emotional Intensity
Used to emphasize strong feelings while waiting for something.

She watched the announcement with bated breath, hoping for a win.
Not Literal
It's a figurative phrase that does not involve real breath holding.

Fans listened with bated breath as the singer hit the high note.
Historic Phrase
Originated in Shakespeare's era, retains a classic, literary tone.

The readers awaited the next book's release with bated breath.
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