This is the 13200th most frequent German word.
aufatmen
To breathe a sigh of relief.
The verb 'aufatmen' is used here to describe the act of feeling relieved or experiencing a reduction in tension after completing something challenging.
Nach einer langen Prüfung konnte sie endlich aufatmen.
After a long exam, she could finally breathe a sigh of relief.
Here, 'aufatmen' emphasizes the moment of relief experienced upon receiving good news.
Als er hörte, dass die Ergebnisse positiv waren, atmete er erleichtert auf.
When he heard the results were positive, he breathed a sigh of relief.
In this sentence, 'aufatmen' conveys the collective relief and relaxation felt by the group upon experiencing a relaxing or reassuring situation.