breathe life into

1. Also, breathe new life into. Revive someone or something. For example, Cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) shows one how to breathe life into a drowning victim, or Her appointment breathed new life into the firm. This term is used both literally, for reviving a person who has stopped breathing temporarily, and figuratively, for giving new impetus to or renewing some project. Also see breath of fresh air.

Example Sentences

Captain Harry Brook hit a superb first one-day international century as England beat Australia in the third match to breathe life into their new era of white-ball cricket.

From BBC

“I would be remiss not to mention how proud I am of Mayor Karen Bass for doing the right thing here — by acknowledging the challenges and harnessing her decision-making power to breathe life into a program that does so much for small business,” Navarrette said, “as well as the streets they occupy.”

From Los Angeles Times

Hodge, a 31-year-old playing only his fourth Test, should have been caught on 16 by Joe Root, but instead went on to make 120 to breathe life into the tourists and the series.

From BBC

The man whose firing led to the Sean McVay era with the Rams has been tabbed to breathe life into the wobbly Arena Football League.

From Los Angeles Times

A vinyl wrap can breathe life into the look of your car.

From Seattle Times

Related Words

• arouse 
• encourage 
• energize 
• invigorate 
• overcome 
• quicken 
• recover 
• rejuvenate 
• rekindle 
• renew 
• renovate 
• repair 
• restore 
• resurrect 
• resuscitate 
• revitalize 
• strengthen