Breathe down your neck Meaning in English
expression
Definition
When someone observes or supervises you very closely, especially in a way that feels uncomfortable or like they are putting pressure on you.
Usage & Nuances
Informal and often negative; suggests annoyance or pressure caused by someone supervising too closely. Commonly used for bosses or parents. Often follows forms of 'have' or 'keep.' Not physical—it's about feeling watched or pressured.
Example Sentences
My boss always breathes down my neck when I work.
basic
I can't concentrate with someone breathing down my neck.
basic
Stop breathing down my neck, I know what I'm doing!
basic
Ever since the mistake, my supervisor has been breathing down my neck nonstop.
natural
I would get more done if my parents didn't always breathe down my neck.
natural
You don’t need to breathe down my neck—I promise I’ll finish the project on time.
natural