noun
Anatomical term for the throat, including the pharynx and larynx. More formal than のど.
咽喉の炎症で声が出にくい。
I have trouble speaking because of throat inflammation.
noun
vital passage; key position
Figurative use for a strategically critical point, often in military or logistical contexts. Commonly appears in the set phrase 咽喉を扼する (to hold a vital point).
その海峡は海上交通の咽喉だ。
That strait is a vital passage for maritime traffic.
敵は咽喉を扼する位置に陣取った。
The enemy took up a position that held the key point.
Everyday word for throat; 咽喉 is more formal and anatomical.
Compound of 咽 (pharynx) and 喉 (larynx), both kanji referring to parts of the throat. The figurative sense derives from the idea of a narrow, critical passage.