General:
* Pant: To breathe heavily, usually due to exertion.
* Huff: To breathe in sharply, often with a sound.
* Sniff: To inhale sharply, often with a noise.
* Suck in: To take a sharp breath.
* Inhale sharply: A more formal way to describe a gasp.
Expressing Surprise/Fear:
* Start: To suddenly move due to surprise or fear.
* Crick: To stiffen with shock or surprise.
* Stare: To look at someone or something with wide eyes, often in surprise.
* Whimper: To make a low, weak sound, often expressing fear or pain.
* Shriek: To scream loudly, often in fear or pain.
Expressing Relief/Pleasure:
* Sigh: To breathe out deeply and slowly, often expressing relief.
* Exhale: To breathe out air, usually with a sense of relief.
* Smile: To express happiness or pleasure with one's face.
* Laugh: To make a sound expressing amusement or happiness.
The best word to use will depend on the specific situation and the emotion you want to convey.