The phrase "chokes down" is commonly used to describe someone who is struggling to eat or drink something due to its unpleasant taste or texture. The spelling of "chokes down" is straightforward, with "chokes" being pronounced as /tʃoʊks/ and "down" as /daʊn/. When spoken together, the stress falls on the first syllable of "chokes," resulting in the pronounced word sounding like /ˈtʃoʊks.daʊn/. It is important to note that the word "chokes" can also function as a verb on its own, with the same pronunciation.
The phrase "chokes down" is a colloquial expression that typically denotes the act of forcing oneself to consume something unpleasant or distasteful despite a strong aversion or reluctance. It is often used to describe an act of swallowing or ingesting food or drink that is unappetizing, unpalatable, or otherwise difficult to consume. The term carries a sense of effort or resistance in the act of eating or drinking.
Metaphorically, "chokes down" can extend beyond the domain of food and refer to the act of accepting or enduring something undesirable or uncomfortable, such as accepting criticism, adhering to an unwanted obligation, or facing a challenging situation or task. It implies a struggle or inner resistance to the action being undertaken.
The phrase conveys a mixture of physical discomfort, mental fortitude, and being compelled to complete a necessary or expected action. It may also suggest a sense of sacrifice or perseverance to fulfill an obligation, duty, or goal. Overall, "chokes down" symbolizes the swallowing of something difficult, unpleasant, or unwanted, both literally and figuratively.
The term "chokes down" is a combination of two separate words: "chokes" and "down".
The word "chokes" comes from the Middle English word "choken", which means "to choke" or "to suffocate". It originated from the Old English word "ċēocian" with the same meaning.
The word "down" has its roots in Old English as well, derived from the word "dūne", which means "hill" or "elevation". Over time, it came to be used as a preposition indicating movement from a higher to a lower position.
When these two words combine to form "chokes down", it refers to the act of forcefully or quickly swallowing food while struggling to overcome a choking sensation.