What does the phrasal verb “choke off” mean?

What are the definitions of “choke off”?

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

• 1. Stop or restrict.

  These guerilla attacks are CHOKING OFF our food shipments.

What’s the most common meaning of the phrasal verb “choke off”?

The most common meaning of the phrasal verb choke off is to stop or restrict something, usually by blocking or cutting off access to it. This can refer to the flow of resources, information, or any other essential element.

What are the different verb forms of “choke off”?

Root Verb	choke off
Third Person Singular Present	chokes off
Present Participle	choking off
Simple Past	choked off
Past Participle	choked off

Example

The government tried to choke off the flow of information to the public.

Example

The new policy chokes off access to affordable healthcare for many people.

Example

The construction is choking off traffic in the city center.

Example

The sudden snowstorm choked off the supply of fresh produce to the market.

Example

The flow of water was choked off by the debris in the pipe.

What kind of phrasal verb is “choke off”?

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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 off” 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

The new regulations choked off the growth of small businesses.

Example

The landslide choked off the only road to the village.

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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 off” 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

The new regulations choked off the growth of small businesses.

Example

The landslide choked off the only road to the village.

What are common phrases and expressions that include the phrasal verb “choke off”?

Choke off demand

To reduce or eliminate the demand for a product or service, often by making it less attractive or accessible.

Example

The high prices choked off demand for luxury goods during the recession.

Choke off supply

To reduce or eliminate the supply of a product or service, often by blocking or restricting access to it.

Example

The strike choked off the supply of fuel to the city.

Choke off growth

To hinder or stop the growth or development of something, often by imposing restrictions or creating unfavorable conditions.

Example

The lack of investment choked off growth in the local economy.

Good things to know

Does “choke off” have an informal or formal tone?

Choke off is a neutral phrasal verb that can be used in both informal and formal contexts. It is appropriate for everyday conversations, as well as more formal settings, such as business meetings, academic discussions, or news reports.

What are synonyms of antonyms to the phrasal verb “choke off”?

Synonyms

• block
• obstruct
• hinder
• impede
• stifle
• thwart
• restrict
• curtail

Antonyms

• allow
• permit
• facilitate
• encourage
• promote
• support
• foster
• stimulate