Earful: meaning, definitions and examples

Used informally to describe a long and often angry speech or complaint, usually when someone is annoyed or upset.

• She gave him an earful for coming home late.
• After the meeting, my boss gave me an earful about the missed deadlines.

Used formally or semi-formally to describe a rebuke or criticism, often in a work or official setting. It carries a serious tone.

• The employee received a formal reprimand for being late to work.
• The soldier was reprimanded for not following orders.

Used to describe a verbal reprimand, often done in an emotional or angry manner, typically involving a parent or authority figure to someone younger or subordinate.

• The mother scolded her child for making a mess.
• I got a scolding from my teacher for not doing my homework.

Usually used in more formal or educational settings to describe a long discourse on a particular topic, but can also be used negatively when someone talks at length in a condescending manner.

• The professor gave a fascinating lecture on ancient history.
• He started to lecture me about the importance of saving money.

This term is typically used informally to mean a long and angry reprimand or scolding. It has a negative connotation and suggests an overwhelming amount of unpleasant talk.

• He got an earful from his boss after being late for the third time this week.
• After crashing the car, she gave him an earful.

This is a general term for any unwanted sound. It is often used to describe sounds that interfere with normal hearing or conversation, and can have a neutral or negative connotation.

• The construction work generated a lot of noise, disturbing the whole neighborhood.
• She couldn’t concentrate on her studies because of the constant noise from outside.

This word is used to describe an interruption or disruption that causes inconvenience or discomfort. It can refer to both noise and other forms of interruption.

• The loud party next door caused a disturbance, making it impossible for me to sleep.
• A sudden disturbance broke the calm of the library.

Use this word to describe a harsh and jarring mixture of sounds. It can refer to both literal and metaphorical noise, often in a chaotic or discordant way.

• The city’s streets were filled with a cacophony of car horns, sirens, and shouting.
• The band’s performance was a cacophony, making it hard to enjoy the music.