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Excoriating Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿฉน
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excoriating

[ษชkหˆskษ”หriหŒeษชtษชล‹ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

harsh criticism

Excoriating is used to describe a form of criticism that is exceedingly harsh and scathing. It often relates to critique in literature, performance, or policy, where the intent is to thoroughly denounce or condemn. An excoriating review can leave the subject of the critique in a vulnerable position, as it highlights significant flaws or shortcomings without any redeeming qualities. This type of criticism may impact public perception seriously and is often reserved for issues of great importance or severe failure.

Synonyms

critical, harsh, scathing, severe, vitriolic.

Examples of usage

  • The film received an excoriating review from critics.
  • Her excoriating remarks about the policy left many shocked.
  • The author's excoriating analysis of the issue sparked a heated debate.

Translations

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Interesting Facts

Psychology

  • Criticism, especially if excoriating, can lead to a defensive reaction in the criticized individual, sparking conflict.
  • Research shows that harsh criticism can diminish motivation and self-esteem, affecting personal growth.
  • Those on the receiving end of excoriating feedback often remember it for years, making it impactful in their emotional development.

Literature

  • The term is frequently used in literary criticism to describe harsh reviews that leave little room for interpretation.
  • Prominent authors often faced excoriating reviews that almost defined their career trajectory and public perception.
  • Modern literature uses the term to illustrate the heightened tension between characters, especially in dialogues filled with sharp repartees.

Media and Culture

  • In politics, excoriating statements can shift public opinion quickly, showcasing the power of media language.
  • Television shows often include excoriating dialogues as a dramatic device to showcase conflict and character flaws.
  • Social media has amplified the reach of excoriating commentary, where minute criticisms can become trending topics overnight.

Philosophy

  • Philosophers discuss the balance between constructive criticism and excoriating remarks, emphasizing the importance of intent.
  • The ethics of criticism often questions whether excoriating reviews serve a greater societal purpose or simply spread negativity.
  • Some philosophical schools argue that excoriating perspectives can lead to deeper understanding and growth when delivered thoughtfully.

Origin of 'excoriating'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin 'excoriare', which means 'to strip off the skin'.
  • It was originally used in a literal sense related to skin but evolved to mean sharp criticism.
  • The prefix 'ex-' implies 'out of' or 'from', while 'cori' refers to skin, highlighting a sense of removal or exposure.

The term 'excoriating' originates from the Latin word 'excoriare', which means 'to strip off the skin' (ex- for 'out of' and corium for 'skin'). This etymological root conveys a figurative sense of tearing apart or severely criticizing. The word has evolved over time and has been incorporated into English lexicon since at least the 14th century, primarily used in academic and literary contexts to describe intense forms of critique. Excoriating critiques often aim to dismantle arguments or performances thoroughly, akin to stripping back superficial layers to expose underlying issues. This historical evolution reflects a shift from its physical connotation to one centered on verbal or written criticism, showcasing the power of language in the realm of critique.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #37,469, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.