To hold one's breath (in fear or suspense); to watch or wait anxiously for an outcome.
試験の合格発表を、みんな固唾を呑んで待っていた。
Everyone held their breath waiting for the exam results.
観客は固唾を呑んで決勝の最終プレーを見守った。
The audience watched the final play with bated breath.
手術室で家族は固唾を飲んで医師の報告を聞いていた。
In the operating room, the family listened to the doctor's report with held breath.