noun

la respiration

breathing

C'est l'action de prendre de l'air dans le corps et de le rejeter, pour vivre.

The French word "respiration" means breathing, the biological process through which living organisms take in oxygen and expel carbon dioxide.

Meaning:

  • Respiration refers to the act or process of inhaling air (or oxygen) into the lungs and exhaling carbon dioxide.
  • It is used in medical, biological, and everyday contexts.

Related synonyms and differences:

  • Souffle: Literally means "breath" or "blow." It often refers to the air one exhales during breathing and can also describe one's breath in a poetic or figurative sense. Less scientific than "respiration."
  • Ventilation: Refers specifically to the mechanical or physical movement of air into and out of the lungs, often used in medical contexts, especially relating to devices aiding breathing.
  • Respirer (verb): The act of breathing.

Example:

  • "La respiration est essentielle à la vie." ("Breathing is essential for life.")
  • When talking about proper breathing techniques in singing or sports, "respiration" is the suitable term.

In summary, "respiration" specifically describes the biological/involuntary process of breathing, while synonyms or related words may denote specific aspects or be more figurative.

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Examples

Ma respiration est lente.noun

My breathing is slow.

Sa respiration devenait plus calme après l'exercice.noun

His breathing was becoming calmer after the exercise.

Pendant la course, ma respiration s'est soudain accélérée.noun

During the run, my breathing suddenly sped up.

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