Harangue: meaning, definitions and examples

A harangue is usually a long, scolding speech. It is often used in formal or public situations to criticize someone or something.

• The coach delivered a harangue to his team after their poor performance in the game.
• She was tired of listening to his endless harangue about the government's policies.

A diatribe is a bitter, forceful, and lengthy verbal attack. It often expresses intense disapproval or anger. This term usually carries a negative connotation.

• His diatribe against the company's management shocked everyone in the meeting.
• The article is nothing but a diatribe against modern technology.

A tirade is a long, angry speech that is critical and accusatory. It is typically directed towards a specific person or group and is meant to express displeasure.

• The politician launched into a tirade against his opponent's policies.
• Her father's tirade about her spending habits left her in tears.

A rant is an emotional and often loud expression of anger or complaints. It is usually informal and can occur in any setting.

• She went on a rant about the poor customer service she received at the store.
• After losing the game, he ranted about the unfair refereeing.

Suitable when describing a long, intense, and passionate speech, often used to criticize or persuade others forcefully. It often has a negative connotation.

• The politician harangued the crowd for over an hour.
• She delivered a harangue against the current administration.

Appropriate for describing a more formal and instructive form of speech, often educational or advisory, and not necessarily negative.

• The professor lectured on ancient history.
• Her father gave her a lecture about responsibility.

Used when someone is scolding or criticizing another person angrily and at length. It implies strong disapproval and has a negative connotation.

• The coach berated the team for their poor performance.
• She berated her assistant for the mistake.

This word is used when mildly scolding or reprimanding someone, often out of a sense of correction or guidance rather than anger. It is generally less severe and can be used in both positive and negative contexts.

• The mother chided her child for not doing his homework.
• He chided his friend for being late.