Choking: meaning, definitions and examples

applies when something is blocking the throat, making it difficult to breathe. It often happens while eating or drinking.

• He started choking on a piece of meat
• Make sure babies don’t have small objects to avoid choking hazards

used when someone is unable to breathe due to lack of air or being covered with something, more general compared to choking or strangulation.

• He risked suffocation by staying in the smoke-filled room
• Suffocation is a danger in confined spaces with poor ventilation

refers to a situation where the neck is being compressed, restricting airflow, often due to violence or accidents. It typically implies a deliberate act.

• The report said the victim died from strangulation
• Strangulation is a violent act that can be life-threatening

Used when someone is unable to breathe properly because something is blocking their airway.

• He started choking on a piece of steak during dinner.
• The child began choking after swallowing a small toy.

Used when someone is struggling to breathe, often due to surprise, fear, or effort.

• She gasped when she saw the surprise party.
• After running the marathon, he was gasping for air.

Used when someone is breathing with difficulty, often making a high-pitched whistling sound. It is frequently associated with conditions like asthma or bronchitis.

• He could hear his grandmother wheezing in the next room.
• The old man wheezed heavily as he climbed the stairs.