Differences between choke back and claw back
Choke back means to try not to show or express a strong emotion, especially tears or anger. Claw back means to recover something that was lost or taken away, usually money or power.
Meanings and Definitions: choke back vs claw back
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Choke back
- 1to suppress or hold back something, often an emotion, sound, or reaction
Even though he was visibly trying to choke back the noise, Meer keened, just briefly before he forced silence.
- 2To try to control or suppress (an emotion, tears, etc.)
It was all I could do to choke back a sob, and pinch my lips tight shut to stop them trembling.
Claw back
- 1Get money back.
The new tax will CLAW BACK what the government has given out in grants.
- 2Retake possession with difficulty.
The opposition parties are trying to CLAW BACK the voters they lost in the last election.
- 3Regain possession with difficulty.
They are CLAWING BACK their market share from their competitors.
Usage Examples: choke back, claw back in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
choke back
Example
She tried to choke back her tears during the sad movie.
Example
He chokes back a laugh when his friend tells a funny joke.
claw back
Example
The company is trying to claw back its lost profits.
Example
She claws back the money she lent to her friend.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Choke back
bite one's tongue
To refrain from speaking or expressing one's opinion, especially when it may cause conflict or offense.
Example
He had to bite his tongue during the meeting to avoid arguing with his boss.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Claw back
recover losses
To retrieve or compensate for financial losses or damages.
Example
The insurance company helped the business recover its losses after a fire destroyed the warehouse.
Differences in choke back vs claw back: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: choke back or claw back?
In everyday conversation, choke back is more common than claw back. This is because choke back is used in various situations where someone is trying to control their emotions, while claw back is more specific to financial or political contexts.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of choke back and claw back
Choke back and claw back are both informal phrases suitable for casual conversations. However, claw back may be used in more formal settings like business or politics.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of choke back and claw back
The tone of choke back and claw back can differ based on context. Choke back often carries a vulnerable or emotional tone, while claw back typically has a determined or aggressive tone.
