The phrase "chokes back" is commonly used to describe someone suppressing their emotions or fighting back tears. The IPA phonetic transcription for this word is /tʃoʊks bæk/, indicating the initial "ch" sound is pronounced as a "tʃ" sound. The "o" in "chokes" is pronounced as a long "o" sound, while the "e" in "back" is pronounced as a short "e" sound. This spelling accurately represents the pronunciation of the word and can help non-native English speakers pronounce it correctly.
The phrase "chokes back" is a verb phrase that is primarily used to describe the act of suppressing or restraining one's emotions, particularly when experiencing intense feelings such as sadness, anger, or grief. When someone "chokes back" their emotions, they forcefully hold back their emotional reactions, often by restraining the outward expression of their feelings or swallowing them down. It implies a strong effort to control one's emotions, even when they are overwhelming or hard to contain.
The word "chokes" in this context signifies the feeling of constriction or obstruction one experiences when the emotions well up within them. It is similar to how a person might physically gag or choke when trying to swallow something difficult or unpleasant. The addition of "back" amplifies the idea of actively repressing one's emotions, reflecting the struggle to keep them from overpowering and becoming visible to others.
This phrase is commonly used to describe situations where individuals try to hide their true feelings, putting on a brave face in difficult circumstances or refraining from crying or displaying overt signs of distress. It can also depict the act of controlling anger or resentment, preventing oneself from lashing out or saying something hurtful in a heated moment. "Choking back" emotions often requires a great deal of willpower, strength, and self-control, illustrating a conscious effort to keep one's feelings in check.
The phrase "chokes back" is a combination of two words: "chokes" and "back".
The word "choke" comes from the Old English word "aceocian", which means "to suffocate" or "to strangle". It is ultimately derived from the West Germanic word "kekkōną".
The word "back" is derived from the Old English word "bæc", which means "the rear or the hind". It has roots in various Germanic languages and is related to the Old High German word "bah".
When these two words are combined, "chokes back" refers to the action of forcibly preventing or suppressing something, often an emotional reaction or tears. It suggests restraining or controlling something within oneself.