(2 entries)
いき
JLPT:N3
Frequency:
1

Breath; breathing—the air taken in or expelled, or the act of inhaling/exhaling.

Noun

Examples

深く息を吸ってから話してください。

Please take a deep breath before you speak.

階段を駆け上って息が切れた。

I ran up the stairs and became out of breath.

ヨガでは呼吸(息)を整えることが大切だ。

In yoga, regulating your breath is important.

2

Harmony or rapport—when people's movements or actions are well-coordinated (as in 'to be in sync').

Noun

Examples

このコンビは息が合っていて、漫才も息がぴったりだ。

This comedy duo is in perfect sync; their manzai timing is spot on.

チーム全員の息を合わせてプレーしよう。

Let's play with everyone in the team in harmony.

長年連れ添った夫婦は言葉がなくても息が合うことが多い。

Spouses who have been together for years often have a natural rapport without words.

3

Steam or vapor rising from hot food or drink (a more literary/older use, similar to 'vapor').

Noun

Examples

鍋から白い息がもうもうと立ち上った。

White steam rose thickly from the pot.

寒い日、熱いお茶の上に小さな息が立った。

On a cold day, a small puff of steam rose from the hot tea.