Harangue Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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harangue

[həˈræŋ ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

public speaking

A lengthy and aggressive speech or lecture, often expressing strong opinions.

Synonyms

diatribe, rant, tirade.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
harangue	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.
diatribe	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.
tirade	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.
rant	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.

Examples of usage

She launched into a harangue about the state of politics.
The politician's harangue failed to convince the audience.
The teacher's harangue on responsibility lasted for over an hour.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

public speaking

To lecture (someone) at length in an aggressive and critical manner.

Synonyms

berate, chide, lecture.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
harangue	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.
lecture	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.
berate	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.
chide	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.

Examples of usage

He harangued the students about the importance of studying.
She harangued her colleagues for their lack of effort.
The boss harangued the employees for their poor performance.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'harangue'

The word 'harangue' originated from the French word 'haranguer', which means 'to address a public meeting'. It was first used in the English language in the late 16th century. Over the years, 'harangue' has come to be associated with impassioned and forceful speeches or lectures, often with a negative connotation.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #24,537, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.

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24534 meningeal
24535 unlocking
24536 demeaning
24537 harangue
24538 mayhem
24539 lather
24540 slur
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