cứng họng
Definition
- Adjective (idiomatic):
- To be left speechless; to have nothing to say in reply: Used to describe a state where someone is unable to respond or argue back, typically because they have been proven wrong, are embarrassed, or are overwhelmed by a counter-argument. It implies being silenced or rendered mute in a discussion.
Usage Examples
- Adjective:
- Bị phản bác gay gắt, nó cứng họng không nói được câu nào. (Sharply rebutted, he was left speechless and couldn't say a word.)
- Khi tôi đưa ra bằng chứng, tất cả đều cứng họng. (When I presented the evidence, everyone was left speechless.)
Advanced Usage
- This phrase is informal and carries a slightly vulgar or blunt connotation, often used in confrontational or heated contexts. It emphasizes a complete and sudden loss for words.
Variants and Related Words
- Cứng miệng (adj): Similar to "cứng họng," meaning to be stubbornly silent or unable to reply, though "cứng miệng" can also imply being tight-lipped or refusing to speak.
Synonyms
- Speechless: deprived of the power of speech.
- Dumbfounded: greatly astonished or amazed, often to the point of being unable to speak.
- Reduced to silence: caused to stop speaking.
Related Idioms
- Cạn lời: to be at a loss for words (often due to frustration or disbelief, less confrontational than "cứng họng").
- Tắc tị: to be stuck, to be unable to respond or proceed (can be used in arguments or in general situations).