息いきを凝こらす

expression, godan verb (-su)

hold one's breath

Used when someone holds their breath, often from tension, concentration, or anticipation. Can be literal or figurative.

• 観かん客きゃくは固唾かたずを飲のんで、息いきを凝こらして舞ぶ台たいを見み守まもった。

  The audience held their breath and watched the stage intently.

• 彼かれは息いきを凝こらして、物もの音おとを立たてまいとした。

  He held his breath, trying not to make a sound.