The correct spelling of the phrase "clears throat" is /klɪəz θroʊt/. The first sound is a voiceless velar stop, followed by a lax vowel sound, and then a voiced alveolar fricative. The final sound is a voiceless dental fricative. The spelling of this phrase may seem straightforward, but the English language has various homophones and words with similar spellings that can cause confusion. Proper spelling is essential in written communication to ensure clear and effective messaging.
Clears throat is an idiomatic expression used to describe the action of deliberately or forcefully expelling air from the throat in order to create a clearing or coughing sound. This action is typically done to dislodge any obstructions or irritants in the throat, or to prepare the vocal cords for speaking or singing.
When a person clears their throat, they generally make a brief and noticeable sound, often described as a low "ahem" sound. The individual may also instinctively cover their mouth with their hand, displaying a courteous gesture.
While clearing one's throat is often associated with improving vocal quality or relieving irritation, it can also serve as a social cue or attention-getter in certain situations. For example, public speakers or presenters may clear their throat to signal the beginning of their talk or to capture the audience's attention.
In informal contexts, clearing one's throat can indicate nervousness, hesitation, or a desire to speak up. It may also be used by individuals to display impatience or annoyance, particularly when waiting for someone to finish speaking or when seeking attention in a group setting.
Overall, "clears throat" refers to the act of forcefully expelling air from the throat, which can serve various purposes such as relieving throat irritation, signaling the beginning of a speech, expressing impatience, or capturing attention in a group setting.
The phrase "clears throat" doesn't have a specific etymology of its own. Rather, it consists of two separate words: "clears" and "throat".
1. "Clears": This is the third-person singular present form of the verb "clear". Its etymology can be traced back to the Old English word "clǣran", meaning "bright, pure" or "free from obstructions". Over time, this word evolved into "clere" in Middle English before becoming "clear" in Modern English. It has retained its general sense of removing obstacles or making something unobstructed.
2. "Throat": The word "throat" has its origins in Old English as well, derived from the Old English word "þrote". This, in turn, can be traced back to the Old Germanic "þrut-".