breeze
B1Informal to neutral.
Definition
Meaning
A gentle, pleasant wind.
Something done easily and without effort; to move or proceed in a casual, relaxed manner.
Linguistics
Semantic Notes
The literal sense of a light wind is primary and neutral. Its metaphorical use for effortless action is common but remains informal, often implying ease or luck.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
No major differences in core meaning. Both use the verb sense ('to breeze in/through'). The phrase 'shoot the breeze' (to chat casually) is primarily American.
Connotations
Identical. Connotations of pleasantness, ease, and lightness are shared.
Frequency
Both literal and metaphorical uses are equally frequent in both varieties.
Vocabulary
Collocations
Grammar
Valency Patterns
Something breezes (somewhere).Someone breezes through (a task).A breeze blows (from somewhere).There is a breeze.Vocabulary
Synonyms
Strong
Neutral
Weak
Vocabulary
Antonyms
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “shoot the breeze”
- “a breeze (to do something)”
- “breeze in/out/through”
Usage
Context Usage
Business
Used metaphorically: 'She breezed through the quarterly review.'
Academic
Rare, except in descriptive geography or meteorology texts.
Everyday
Very common for weather and describing easy tasks: 'The exam was a breeze.'
Technical
In meteorology, a 'breeze' is a wind of force 2 to 6 on the Beaufort scale.
Examples
By Part of Speech
verb
British English
- He just breezed into the meeting ten minutes late.
- She breezed through her A-levels with top marks.
American English
- She breezed into the room like she owned it.
- He breezed through the driver's test on his first try.
adjective
British English
- It was a breezy afternoon, perfect for cricket.
- She has a wonderfully breezy manner.
American English
- We're hoping for a breezy day at the beach.
- His breezy attitude sometimes annoys his more serious colleagues.
Examples
By CEFR Level
- A cool breeze made the hot day feel nicer.
- The window was open and a breeze came in.
- There's always a lovely breeze coming from the sea.
- Don't worry, the test will be a breeze for you.
- She breezed through the interview, charming all the panel members.
- A gentle breeze rustled the leaves of the oak tree.
- Despite its breezy, conversational tone, the article contained a penetrating analysis.
- The politician breezed into the hall, shaking hands and flashing a practised smile.
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
A breeze is easy and gentle, like the sound of the letter 'Z' in its middle.
Conceptual Metaphor
EASE IS LIGHTNESS / DIFFICULTY IS HEAVINESS (e.g., 'a breeze' vs. 'a heavy task').
Watch out
Common Pitfalls
Translation Traps (for Russian speakers)
- Avoid using 'сквозняк' (draft) for a pleasant breeze; that implies an unwanted, cold indoor wind. Use 'лёгкий ветерок' or 'бриз' (for a sea breeze).
- The verb 'to breeze' does not directly translate; use phrases like 'сделать легко' or 'войти непринуждённо'.
Common Mistakes
- Using 'breeze' for a strong wind (incorrect).
- Using the verb without a particle: 'He breezed the exam.' (Correct: 'He breezed through the exam.')
Practice
Quiz
Which sentence uses 'breeze' correctly as a verb?
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
The literal meaning (a light wind) is neutral and acceptable in formal writing. The metaphorical meaning ('something easy') is informal.
A 'breeze' is specifically a light to moderate wind that is pleasant. 'Wind' is the general term and can be any strength, from a breeze to a gale.
Yes. It means to move or proceed quickly and easily, often with a sense of casualness (e.g., 'She breezed into the room', 'He breezed through the test').
It's an informal American idiom meaning to chat casually or engage in relaxed, aimless conversation.
Collections
Part of a collection
Weather
A2 · 45 words · Describing the weather, climate and seasons.