The phrasal verb "choke up" is predominantly used in informal contexts, often to describe a situation where someone is overwhelmed with emotion to the point that they find it difficult to speak. It is commonly used in conversational English to convey the idea of someone being moved by an emotional experience, such as recalling a touching memory, receiving unexpected good news, or during a heartfelt moment. "Choke up" is frequently associated with emotions like sadness, joy, or pride, making it a versatile expression in describing an emotional response when words fail. This phrasal verb is not typically used in formal writing, where more specific terms might be preferred to describe someone's emotional state. In terms of usage patterns, you might hear phrases like, "He choked up while thanking everyone at the ceremony," or "She started to choke up when talking about her family." Although it can also be used in contexts unrelated to emotion, such as someone literally choking on food, the emotional context is more prevalent and recognized. Overall, "choke up" effectively captures a moment of emotional vulnerability, adding a layer of relatability and depth to informal conversations.
B2
UpperIntermediate
1. To become so emotional that one is unable to speak or is about to cry.
She choked up during her wedding vows and had to take a moment to compose herself.
When he received the award, he started to choke up and couldn't finish his acceptance speech.
2. To fill or block completely with something.
The drain was choked up with leaves and needed cleaning.
The stadium choked up with fans, eager to see the game.
