Have, etc. a lump in your throat
phrase
To feel strong emotion that makes it hard to speak.
When she started talking about her father, who passed away last year, she had a lump in her throat.

Often appears as...
- feel a lump in your throat
- get a lump in your throat
Usage tips
Idiomatic
phrase
To feel strong emotion that makes it hard to speak.
When she started talking about her father, who passed away last year, she had a lump in her throat.

Often appears as...
- feel a lump in your throat
- get a lump in your throat
Usage tips
Idiomatic
Definition 1 of 1

Emotional Overwhelm
Use the phrase when emotions are so strong they almost prevent you from speaking.

Seeing her childhood home in ruins, she had a lump in her throat.
Not Literal
The 'lump' isn't physical, but a sensation caused by emotions like sadness or pride.

During the national anthem, he had a lump in his throat.
Personal Stories
Often used when sharing personal, touching stories that evoke strong feelings.

Recounting her journey to freedom, she had a lump in her throat.
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