The idiom “(as) hoarse as a crow” is used to describe someone who has a hoarse or rough voice, often as a result of overuse, illness, or shouting. It draws a vivid comparison to the coarse and raspy sound of a crow’s caw.
Meaning of “(as) hoarse as a crow“
- Literal meaning:
- Referring to someone whose voice is raspy, rough, or strained, resembling the sound of a crow.
- Figurative meaning:
- Suggesting a person has overexerted their voice or is naturally hoarse.
Examples of “(as) hoarse as a crow” in sentences
Literal context:
“After shouting at the team all afternoon, the coach was as hoarse as a crow.“
“Jill asked, ‘Has Bob got a cold?’ Jane replied, ‘No, he’s always hoarse as a crow.‘”
Everyday situations:
“By the end of the concert, Sarah had sung so loudly she was hoarse as a crow.“
“My throat is sore, and I sound as hoarse as a crow after the football match.”
Origins of the idiom
This expression likely comes from the comparison between a human’s hoarse voice and the distinct, harsh sound made by crows. The crow’s caw is often perceived as coarse and unpleasant, making it an apt metaphor for describing a rough or strained human voice.
Similar expressions
- “Sounding like a frog” (a croaky or hoarse voice)
- “Raspy as sandpaper” (a rough voice)
- “Lost one’s voice” (unable to speak normally)
- “As rough as a crow’s caw” (less common but comparable)
How to use “(as) hoarse as a crow” in conversations
This idiom is suitable for informal situations, often to humorously or vividly describe someone’s voice condition:
“After the long debate, the politician was hoarse as a crow but still determined to speak.”
“If you keep shouting like that, you’ll end up sounding as hoarse as a crow tomorrow!”
Conclusion
The idiom “(as) hoarse as a crow” is a colorful way to describe someone with a rough, strained voice. Its imagery adds humor and character to conversations about common voice-related issues, whether from cheering too loudly or battling a sore throat. Use this phrase to bring a bit of avian flair to your descriptions!
