Feeling your shoulders relax after a stressful day is a small but powerful moment. That audible exhale of comfort is exactly what it means to let out a sigh of relief. In this post, we’ll cover the meaning, origin, and real-life examples so you can recognize or use this idiom in everyday life.
Meaning of "Let Out a Sigh of Relief"
To let out a sigh of relief means to breathe out audibly when a stressful, worrying, or tense situation ends, usually because things turned out okay.
It can be used in slightly different ways:
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Literal meaning: Actually exhaling loudly due to relief.
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Figurative meaning: Expressing relief emotionally without physically sighing.
Summary definition: To express a sense of relief after stress or worry.
Origin of "Let Out a Sigh of Relief"
The exact origin isn’t fully documented, but sighing as a way to release tension goes back centuries. Writers in the 16th and 17th centuries often described characters “sighing for relief” after distressing events. The idiom itself became more standardized in English literature in the 19th century, reflecting a universal human reaction to anxiety and its release.
Humans naturally exhale when stress eases, and language eventually gave this universal reaction a figurative label that stuck.
Examples in Sentences
Here are a few ways to use let out a sigh of relief in daily language:
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After seeing her exam results, Maria let out a sigh of relief—she had passed with flying colors.
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The hikers let out a sigh of relief when they finally spotted the safe trail back to the cabin.
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I let out a sigh of relief when the meeting ended without any unexpected questions.
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He let out a sigh of relief knowing the lost wallet was found in his car.
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During the tense courtroom trial, the audience collectively let out a sigh of relief when the verdict was favorable.
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She let out a sigh of relief and smiled, happy the storm had passed without damage.
Similar Idioms or Phrases
If you like let out a sigh of relief, you might enjoy these similar expressions:
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Breathe a sigh of relief – basically interchangeable, slightly more formal.
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Sleep easy – to be free from worry or anxiety.
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Take a load off your shoulders – to feel relieved after a burden or responsibility is lifted.
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Exhale in relief – literal and figurative, emphasizes the act of releasing tension.
I notice myself letting out a sigh of relief after finishing a tough workout or completing a tight deadline. That moment when tension disappears is almost magical—it’s like your body and mind are both smiling. Using this idiom in conversation can really paint that feeling vividly.
Letting out a sigh of relief is more than just a phrase—it’s a small, universal way of showing that stress has passed. From exams and meetings to everyday surprises, it captures a familiar and comforting feeling. Next time tension lifts, notice the sigh—and now, you can even describe it in words!