How to Memorize

the kids were at each other's throats all day!

Analysis

To be 'at each other's throats' is an idiom meaning to be in an aggressive argument with someone else. to be 'at someone's throat' suggests that those arguing are so angry or aggressive that they are behaving as if they were wild animals, who tear at each other's throats when in conflict. It also conjures an image of strangulation. As if you are so mad at somebody for what they are saying that you want to put your hands on their throat violently in order to shut them up. This expression is particularly effective when discussing the animosity between people that is ongoing rather than an isolated incident, and can be used to discuss conflict or disagreements in either a social or professional setting.

Social Examples (Basic)

1. Our family trip to the countryside was a disaster! The kids were just at each other's throats all day.
2. Martin and I are not at each other's throats! We're just having a spirited debate about politics.
3. Sort out your differences right now! I don't want you two at each other's throats when the guests arrive! 

Professional Examples (Basic)

1. The marketing and sales departments have been at each other's throats for weeks over which direction to take with the new product.
2. The heads at those two companies are always at each other's throats and trying to compete with one another.

Further Suggestions