What does “At each other's throats” mean?
"At each other's throats" means that two or more people are engaged in a heated argument or conflict.
What context can I use the in?
Example
The two politicians were at each other's throats during the debate.
Example
The siblings were constantly at each other's throats over trivial matters.
Example
The rival sports teams were at each other's throats throughout the entire game
Is “At each other's throats” an expression, an idiom, or a proverb?
“At each other's throats” is a proverb. A proverb is a short saying that teaches us something important or gives us advice. Unlike an idiom, it’s easy to understand even if it uses figurative language.
How would I use “At each other's throats” effectively in context?
You can use "At each other's throats" to describe a situation where two or more people are engaged in a heated argument or conflict. It emphasizes the intensity and hostility of the disagreement. For example, if you witness two friends arguing loudly, you might say, 'They were really at each other's throats over that disagreement.'
- 1Politics
The two politicians were at each other's throats during the debate.
- 2Family
The siblings were constantly at each other's throats over trivial matters.
- 3Sports
The rival sports teams were at each other's throats throughout the entire game.
Similar phrases to “At each other's throats”:
Have a falling-out
To have a serious disagreement or conflict with someone
Example
After years of friendship, they had a falling-out over a misunderstanding.
Good things to know:
Where does the phrase “At each other's throats” come from?
The origin of the phrase "At each other's throats" is unknown.
Is “At each other's throats” common in everyday conversation?
Yes, "At each other's throats" is a common idiom used in everyday conversation. People often use it to describe intense conflicts or arguments between individuals or groups.
What tone does “At each other's throats” have?
"At each other's throats" conveys a tone of hostility and tension. It suggests a high level of animosity and disagreement between the parties involved.
Can “At each other's throats” be used in informal and formal settings?
Yes, "At each other's throats" can be used in both informal and formal settings. It's a versatile expression that describes intense conflicts. You can use it in everyday conversations with friends, family, and colleagues, as well as in more formal situations such as discussions, debates, or professional correspondence.
Can it be used by itself, or is it usually part of a sentence?
It's commonly used as part of a sentence to convey its full meaning. For example, 'The neighbors were constantly at each other's throats over parking spaces.' However, in informal conversations, people might understand the phrase even if used alone, like saying 'They were really "at each other's throats"!' to imply a heated argument.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
- fighting tooth and nail
- in a heated dispute
- engaged in a bitter feud
- locked in a battle
- in the midst of a confrontation
Antonyms
- getting along
- making peace
- finding common ground
- resolving conflicts
- reaching a compromise
