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breathe down one's neck

phrase

1
: to threaten especially in attack or pursuit
2
: to keep one under close or constant surveillance
parents always breathing down his neck

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Cite this Entry

“Breathe down one's neck.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/breathe%20down%20one%27s%20neck. Accessed 11 Dec. 2025.

Last Updated: - Definition revised
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