draw a sober breath
English
Verb
draw a sober breath (third-person singular simple present draws a sober breath, present participle drawing a sober breath, simple past drew a sober breath, past participle drawn a sober breath)
- To refrain from drinking alcohol.
- He has hardly drawn a sober breath since leaving the army.
Usage notes
- Mostly in negative constructions, to indicate habitual drunkenness.