How to Pronounce "come up for air"
expression
KUHM-UP-fur-AIR
KUM-UP-faw-EUH
Definition
Literally, to rise out of water in order to breathe. Figuratively, it means to take a break or pause from something demanding to rest or recover.
IPA Transcription
American English
ˈkəm/ /ˈəp/ /ˈfɔɹ/, /fɝ/, /fɹɝ/ /ˈɛɹ
British English
kˈʌm/ /ˈʌp/ /fˈɔː/ /ˈeə
Simplified Pronunciation
US
KUHM-UP-fur-AIR
UK
KUM-UP-faw-EUH
Listen in Context
I had to come up for air after swimming for a few minutes.
After hours of work, I needed to come up for air.
She didn't come up for air until the project was finished.
I've been studying all morning and finally had to come up for air.