"Give a gasp" refers to the act of inhaling suddenly and sharply due to surprise, shock, or awe, which often results in an audible sound. This phrase is used primarily in both oral and written contexts but tends to be more common in narrative descriptions, such as storytelling or reporting emotions.
The expression is used frequently in literature, dialogues, and conversational settings. It tends to be more prevalent in narrative writing where characters experience strong emotions.
When she saw the stunning view from the cliff, she couldn't help but give a gasp.
(Когда она увидела потрясающий вид с утеса, она не смогла сдержать вздоха.)
The announcement of the winner made the whole audience give a gasp of surprise.
(Объявление победителя заставило всю публику вздохнуть от удивления.)
As the magician performed his final trick, everyone in the room began to give a gasp.
(Когда маг показывал свой финальный трюк, все в комнате начали вздыхать от удивления.)
The phrase "give a gasp" may not feature prominently in common idiomatic expressions; however, it can be associated with several emotionally charged phrases where surprise or shock is integral.
Example: The audience gave a gasp of awe when the orchestra began to play.
(Публика выразила восхищение, когда оркестр начал играть.)
Example: The crowd gave a gasp of horror as they witnessed the accident.
(Толпа вздохнула от ужаса, когда стала свидетелем аварии.)
Example: He gave a gasp of disbelief when he heard the news about the lottery.
(Он вздохнул от недоумения, когда услышал новость о лотерее.)
The phrase "give a gasp" combines the verb "give," originating from Old English "giefan," meaning "to bestow" or "to grant," with "gasp," derived from Middle English "gaspen," which means "to breathe convulsively." The use of "give" in this context implies the act of producing a gasp as if offering it as an expression.