Don’t hold your breath
When you tell someone not to hold their breath, you’re advising them that what they expect or want to happen won’t happen soon, or ever.
Examples:
- I know you want a new dress, but don’t hold your breath.
- He said he’d be here by 7 o’clock, but I’m not holding my breath.
- They promised her that she’d get a pay rise, but she’s not holding her breath.
Similar idioms include:
- Don’t bet on it
- Don’t count on it
