* Literal meaning: The thief strangled the victim with a scarf before stealing their wallet.
* Figurative meaning: The lack of funding strangled the project before it could even get off the ground.
* Figurative meaning: The thick fog strangled the city, making it difficult to see even a few feet ahead.
* Figurative meaning: The long lines and slow service strangled my patience.
Note: "Strangled" can have a strong and disturbing connotation. Be mindful of the context in which you use it.