Meaning & use

a breath of fresh air

phrase·Everyday

A person or thing that is refreshingly new or enjoyable compared to what came before.

See it in a sentence

The new manager's honest feedback was a breath of fresh air after months of vague criticism.

Her cheerful attitude was a breath of fresh air in the stressful office.

A note on using this word

Always used figuratively about people or situations, not about literally clean outdoor air.

Words with a similar meaning

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