sti·fle /ˈstaɪfəl/ verb1 [transitiveT]PREVENT to stop something from happening or developing 抑止,阻止,压制 OPP encouragerules and regulations that stifle innovation 压制创新的规章制度
How can this party stifle debate on such a crucial issue? 该党怎么可以压制对这么一个重要问题的辩论?
2 [transitiveT]PREVENT to stop a feeling from being expressed 强忍住,压抑〔感情〕He stifled an urge to hit her. 他强忍住冲动,没有打她。
stifle a yawn/smile/grin etcI tried to stifle my laughter. 我竭力忍住不笑。
3 [intransitiveI, transitiveT]BREATHE# if you are stifled by something, it stops you breathing comfortably (使)感到窒息,(使)透不过气来 → suffocateHe was almost stifled by the fumes. 他差点被烟熏得窒息了。
nI felt like I was stifling in the humid air.
n Grammar Stifle is usually passive in this meaning, when used as a transitive verb.