Exclaim: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when you want to express strong emotions such as surprise, joy, or frustration in a sudden and loud manner.

• She couldn't help but exclaim in delight when she saw her birthday surprise.
• He exclaimed loudly, 'I don't believe it!'

Typically used to describe a sudden shout or yell that often indicates pain, fear, or a strong need for something.

• He cried out in pain when he twisted his ankle.
• She cried out for someone to stop the thief.

Used when you raise your voice loudly, usually to be heard over a distance or noise or when you are very angry or excited.

• She had to shout to be heard over the loud music.
• He shouted at his friend from across the street.

Similar to shout, but often implies even greater volume and intensity, usually when expressing anger, urgency, or excitement. Often has a more negative connotation, suggesting a loss of control.

• He yelled at the dog to stop barking.
• She yelled in frustration when she couldn't get the door to open.

This word can refer to shedding tears due to sadness, pain or even joy, but it can also mean calling out loudly for help or attention.

• The baby started to cry because he was hungry.
• She cried for help as she struggled to stay afloat.

See previous definition for 'exclaim'.

• 'It's a boy!' she exclaimed joyfully.
• 'Oh no, not again!' he exclaimed.

This is often used when someone shouts loudly, usually out of pain, fear, or desperation, but can also mean shedding tears.

• She cried for help when she got lost in the forest.
• The baby started to cry when he was hungry.

This is used when someone is raising their voice loudly to express strong emotion, to be heard over distance, or to get attention.

• He shouted for joy when his team won the game.
• She had to shout to be heard over the noise.

Use this for a strong public expression of protest, disapproval, or demand for change. It often has a political or social context.

• There was a public outcry over the new law.
• The decision caused an outcry among the community.

This is appropriate when someone suddenly releases a strong emotion, often loudly or violently. It can have a negative connotation.

• His sudden outburst of anger shocked everyone.
• She had an emotional outburst after hearing the bad news.