don't hold your breath

Definition

Don't wait. Said cynically to suggest that what has just been mentioned is unlikely to happen soon or at all.

Etymology

Suggesting that if one were to hold one's breath while waiting for the expected event, one would die before it happened

Example Sentences

• "- The government says it's going to introduce free meals for all schoolchildren. - Huh, don't hold your breath."
• "Don't hold your breath and don't jump to conclusions, but there is likely to be an announcement about the future of the railways in the next few weeks - [...]."