take someone's breath away
take (one's) breath away
To cause someone to feel intense, typically pleasant, astonishment or awe. Did you see Kathy's gorgeous new dress? It took my breath away. The play is stunning—it will take your breath away!
take someone's breath away
inspire someone with awed respect or delight; astonish someone. 1988 Janet Frame The Carpathians The speed of the process took everyone's breath away.