take somebody's breath away

take (one's) breath away

To cause someone to feel intense, typically pleasant, astonishment or awe. Did you see Kathy's gorgeous new dress? It took my breath away. The play is stunning—it will take your breath away!See also: away, breath, take

take somebody’s ˈbreath away

surprise or amaze somebody: It quite took my breath away when they told me how much money I had won. ▶ ˈbreathtaking adj. very exciting; spectacular: a breathtaking viewSee also: away, breath, take