Spanish Phrase
Respira hondo.
Meaning
A short command telling someone to take a deep breath. It’s often used to help someone calm down, prepare for a performance, or focus before a physical activity.
When to use
Use it in informal settings when you’re speaking to a friend, family member, or anyone you address with ‘tú’. It works well before exams, presentations, sports, or any moment that calls for a quick relaxation technique.
✦Grammar Breakdown
Respirahondo
Imperative (tú) of respirar
‘Respira’ is the affirmative imperative form for the familiar ‘tú’ of the verb ‘respirar’ (to breathe).
Adverbial use of hondo
‘Hondo’ works as an adverb meaning ‘deeply’; it follows the verb directly, similar to ‘profundamente’.
🗨In Conversation
Estoy muy nervioso antes del examen.
I’m really nervous before the exam.
Respira hondo.
Breathe deeply.
✕Common Mistakes
Respira profundo.
‘Profundo’ is an adjective; the correct adverb is ‘profundamente’ or the colloquial ‘hondo’.
¿Puede usted Respira hondo?
When speaking formally you should use the ‘usted’ form: ‘Respire hondo’.
↔Alternatives
Inhala profundamente.
Inhale deeply.
Toma aire profundo.
Take a deep breath.
Respira profundo.
Breathe deep.
Respire hondo.
Breathe deeply (formal).
Cultural Tip
In many Spanish‑speaking countries, short breathing cues like ‘Respira hondo’ are common in everyday conversation, yoga classes, and even sports coaching. While ‘hondo’ is perfectly natural, the more formal adverb ‘profundamente’ is used in written or very formal speech. Remember to switch to the formal imperative ‘Respire hondo’ when addressing elders or strangers you’d address with ‘usted’.