Jump down somebody’s throat

verb

To quickly and sharply criticize or scold someone fiercely.

I was so upset that I jumped down his throat before he could even explain.

Informal, Disapproving

Colloquial, Idiomatic

verb

I was so upset that I jumped down his throat before he could even explain.

Informal, Disapproving

Colloquial, Idiomatic

Definition 1 of 1

Pro Tip 1/3

Used when someone reacts with unexpected intensity, often due to anger or frustration.

When I casually mentioned his mistake, he just jumped down my throat.

Pro Tip 2/3

It's a metaphorical expression; no physical jumping or throats are involved.

Remember, if someone says they 'jumped down your throat', they didn’t really leap into your mouth!

Pro Tip 3/3

Typically used in casual conversation, not formal situations.

He jumped down my throat for being late - sorry, I didn’t mean it’s a formal complaint.

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