What does "in the same breath" mean?
"In the same breath" means saying two contradictory things almost simultaneously. Here's how this expression works and when to use it.
What it means
Saying two things almost simultaneously - especially two things that contradict each other or are strangely juxtaposed.
"She praised the work and criticised it in the same breath."
"He complained about the cost and then, in the same breath, ordered the most expensive option."
"They can't call themselves ethical and in the same breath exploit their suppliers."
What it implies
The two statements are almost simultaneous - close enough in time to reveal an inconsistency, irony, or contradiction. It's often used critically to highlight hypocrisy or contradiction.
Slightly different use - "not in the same breath"
"She's good, but I wouldn't mention her in the same breath as the all-time greats."
Here it means: these two things shouldn't be compared or placed at the same level.
Register
Neutral to formal. More common in journalism, commentary, and careful speech than in casual conversation.
A native would say
- "At the same time" - plain
- "And in the same moment" - descriptive
- "And then contradict themselves" - direct about the hypocrisy
- "Simultaneously" - formal
What does "in the same breath" mean?
Saying two things almost simultaneously - especially two things that contradict each other or are strangely juxtaposed.
"She praised the work and criticised it in the same breath."
"He complained about the cost and then, in the same breath, ordered the most expensive option."
"They can't call themselves ethical and in the same breath exploit their suppliers."
Is "in the same breath" formal or informal?
Neutral to formal. More common in journalism, commentary, and careful speech than in casual conversation.
What's another way to say "in the same breath"?
- "At the same time" - plain
- "And in the same moment" - descriptive
- "And then contradict themselves" - direct about the hypocrisy
- "Simultaneously" - formal
English is full of expressions like this one.
LLH Tutor explains what native speakers actually mean, personalised to your level and goals.
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