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sigh

B1
verbnoun

Pronunciation

UK

  • /sˈaɪ/

US

  • /ˈsaɪ/

Description

A sigh is more than just breathing out; it often shows a feeling without any words. It can come after disappointment, stress, relief, tiredness, or quiet happiness. You might sigh with relief after a problem is over, or sigh in frustration when something goes wrong. A long, heavy one can show worry or sadness, while a soft one can show comfort or calm. Sometimes, it is simply a natural pause before someone speaks or thinks again.

Examples

  1. 1

    Quiet reaction

    She sighed and looked out the window.

  2. 2

    Heavy workload

    He sighed when he saw how much work was left.

  3. 3

    Medical relief

    We all sighed with relief when the doctor said everything was fine.

  4. 4

    Dialogue

    "I know," she sighed, "but we don't have enough time."

  5. 5

    Digital stress

    He let out a long sigh before opening the email.

    • Phrase

      let out a sigh

      make a sigh

  6. 6

    Power outage

    There was a sigh of relief when the lights came back on.

    • Phrase

      a sigh of relief

      a sign that people feel less worried

  7. 7

    Annoyed response

    She just sighed at my question instead of answering it.

    • Pattern

      sigh at + person/question

      react with annoyance, tiredness, or disappointment

Forms and spellings

4 forms open this card.

Main spelling

  • sighnounverb

Forms

  • sighspluralnounverb
  • sighedpast tenseverbnoun
  • sighing-ing formverbnoun