What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
throttle
Example
He had to throttle the engine to prevent it from overheating. [throttle: verb]
Example
She tried to throttle her anger and remain calm. [throttle: verb]
Example
The python used its coils to throttle the prey. [throttle: verb]
constrict
Example
The snake constricted its prey until it stopped breathing. [constricted: past tense]
Example
The company's budget cuts constricted their ability to expand. [constricted: past participle]
Example
The tight dress constricted her movement and made it hard to breathe. [constricted: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Constrict is less commonly used than throttle in everyday language. Throttle is more versatile and covers a wider range of contexts, while constrict is more specific and often used in medical or technical contexts.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between throttle and constrict?
Both throttle and constrict can be used in formal or informal contexts, but constrict may be more commonly used in technical or scientific writing due to its specific meaning.
