sighing
word · lemma: sigh
Definition
Breathing out slowly and audibly, usually expressing sadness, tiredness, relief, or frustration. Can also describe the sound of wind blowing gently.
Usage & Nuances
The emotion behind a sigh depends on context: 'sighing with relief' (positive), 'sighing in frustration' (negative), 'sighing dreamily' (romantic). Often appears in literary writing to convey mood. Don't confuse with 'crying' or 'moaning.'
Example Sentences
She kept sighing during the boring meeting.
basic
He was sighing with relief after passing the exam.
basic
Stop sighing and tell me what is wrong.
basic
I could hear her sighing heavily from the next room, so I knew something was bothering her.
natural
The wind was sighing through the pine trees as we sat by the campfire, and it felt incredibly peaceful.
natural
He scrolled through his inbox, sighing at the mountain of unread emails that had piled up over the weekend.
natural