Differences between cough up and toss up
Cough up means to give or pay money, often reluctantly or with difficulty, whereas toss up means to throw something in the air or to be uncertain about a decision or outcome.
Meanings and Definitions: cough up vs toss up
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Cough up
- 1Lose possession of a ball, etc. in a contact sport.
He was checked so hard he COUGHED UP the puck in front of his own goal.
- 2Expel something from your lungs or throat by coughing.
He gave up smoking after he COUGHED UP some blood.
Toss up
- 1Decide something by throwing a coin and seeing which side lands face up..
We TOSSED UP to see who would kick off.
Usage Examples: cough up, toss up in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
cough up
Example
He needs to cough up the phlegm to clear his throat.
Example
She coughs up mucus when she has a cold.
toss up
Example
They couldn't decide, so they tossed up to choose.
Example
She tosses up a coin to decide which movie to watch.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Cough up
pay up
To pay what is owed or demanded, often after a delay or reluctance.
Example
He finally paid up his debt to the bank after months of reminders and warnings.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Toss up
50-50 chance
To have an equal probability of either success or failure.
Example
It's a 50-50 chance whether it will rain or not tomorrow, so bring an umbrella just in case.
Differences in cough up vs toss up: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: cough up or toss up?
In daily conversation, people use cough up more often than toss up. This is because cough up is used for more common situations such as paying bills or debts. Toss up is not used as much in everyday conversations. It's mainly used when we're talking about making a decision or being unsure about something. So, while both phrases are used, cough up is more common in everyday conversation.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of cough up and toss up
Cough up and toss up are informal phrases often used in casual conversations. They are suitable for everyday interactions with friends and family. In more formal settings like business or academic contexts, using alternative expressions can convey a more polished tone.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of cough up and toss up
The tone of cough up and toss up can differ based on context. Cough up often carries a negative or reluctant tone when related to giving or paying money, while toss up typically has a neutral or uncertain tone, especially when referring to making a decision or predicting an outcome.
