Describing something as breathtaking or thrilling (lit. as if one would gasp).
息を呑むような景色が目の前に広がっていた。
A breathtaking view spread out before me.
息を呑むような結末に観客は静まり返った。
The audience fell silent at the thrilling ending.
息を呑むような技術で彼は難題を解決した。
He solved the difficult problem with breathtaking skill.