French phrase
Pouvez-vous respirer ?
Meaning
Can you breathe?
When to use it
A polite question about whether someone can breathe. It is often used in an emergency and invites a brief yes-or-no reply.
Example dialogue
Pouvez-vous respirer ?
Can you breathe?
Un peu, mais j'ai la poitrine serrée.
A little, but my chest feels tight.