The phrase "fights for breath" is often used to describe a struggling individual who is having difficulty breathing. There are several synonyms for "fights for breath" that can be used to convey this same concept. Some of these synonyms include: gasps for air, wheezes, pants heavily, struggles to inhale, gasps for breath, breathes laboriously, huffs and puffs, and heavily exhales. These synonyms can be used interchangeably to provide a more descriptive and vivid picture of the individual's struggle to breathe. It is important to choose the appropriate synonym depending on the context and severity of the situation.