What are the definitions of “choke back”?
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
- 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.
What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “choke back”?
The most common meaning of the phrasal verb choke back is to suppress or hold back something, often an emotion, sound, or reaction. It is used when someone tries to control their feelings or reactions, such as crying, laughing, or showing anger.
What are the different verb forms of “choke back”?
| Root Verb | choke back |
| Third Person Singular Present | chokes back |
| Present Participle | choking back |
| Simple Past | choked back |
| Past Participle | choked 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.
Example
She is choking back her anger during the argument.
Example
He choked back his tears at the funeral.
Example
She had choked back her emotions during the difficult conversation.
What kind of phrasal verb is “choke back”?
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a transitive and intransitive verb? - A transitive verb always has an object after it. (Example: Sam bought a car.) - An intransitive verb never has an object.(Example: She laughed loudly.)
Transitive verb
“choke back” is a transitive phrasal verb because it requires a direct object to complete its meaning. The direct object specifies what is being removed, obtained, or eliminated.
Example
She choked back her tears during the sad movie.
Example
He choked back his laughter when he saw the funny video.
Notes from a Native English Speaker
What is a separable and inseparable phrasal verb? - A “separable phrasal verb” can be separated with an object between the verb and particle. - An “inseparable phrasal verb” cannot be separated by an object.
Inseparable
“choke back” is an inseparable phrasal verb. This means that you can’t place an object between the verb and the particle, otherwise, it changes the meaning of the phrasal verb.
Example
She choked back her tears during the sad movie.
Example
He choked back his laughter when he saw the funny video.
What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “choke back”?
Good things to know
Does “choke back” have an informal or formal tone?
Choke back is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal situations. It is appropriate for everyday conversations, as well as more formal settings, such as in writing or professional contexts.
