Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Haranguing: meaning, definitions and examples

📢
Add to dictionary

haranguing

 

[həˈræŋɪŋ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Verb

public speaking

Haranguing refers to delivering a lengthy and aggressive speech or lecture, usually aimed at criticizing or challenging someone's beliefs or behaviors. This term often carries a negative connotation, implying that the speaker is overly passionate to the point of being domineering or bombastic. Haranguing can be seen in various public forums, such as political rallies, debates, or even informal gatherings where strong opinions are expressed. It tends to evoke a strong emotional response, whether it be from agreement or opposition.

Synonyms

accosting, berating, blustering, lecturing, ranting.

Examples of usage

  • The activist spent the afternoon haranguing the crowd about social justice.
  • During the meeting, he couldn't help but start haranguing his colleagues about the lack of progress.
  • The coach harangued the players, urging them to give their best in the final minutes of the game.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

  • The word comes from a French term 'harangue', which means a formal speech, often loud and passionate.
  • In Middle English, similar words were used to describe speeches that were lengthy and forceful.
  • Originally, it referred to public speeches aimed at calling people to action or denouncing an issue.

Historical Context

  • During the American Revolution, fiery speeches in the form of harangues energized the colonies to fight for independence.
  • Politicians often use haranguing methods to rally support or criticize their opponents, especially during campaign speeches.
  • Public speaking traditions in cultures like Ancient Greece emphasized the importance of rhetoric, which included haranguing techniques.

Pop Culture

  • In many films, antagonists often give harangues before an important showdown, amplifying the tension.
  • Stand-up comedians sometimes incorporate exaggerated haranguing styles to create humor through rants.
  • Television news shows might showcase politicians haranguing their rivals as a form of dramatic spectacle.

Psychology

  • People often harangue when they feel a loss of control, trying to express their frustrations vocally.
  • Group dynamics can amplify the effect of haranguing; when one person rants, it may encourage others to join in.
  • Haranguing is often ineffective for changing minds and can lead to defensiveness rather than constructive dialogue.

Literature

  • In literature, characters might express their dissent through haranguing, showcasing their beliefs passionately.
  • Classic playwrights like Shakespeare used powerful haranguing speeches to highlight conflict and drama in their plays.
  • Harangues can also be found in poetic forms, where emotion and passionate speech intertwine to convey deep feelings.

Translations

Translations of the word "haranguing" in other languages:

🇵🇹 discurso longo e vehemente

🇮🇳 भावुक भाषण देना

🇩🇪 heftige Rede

🇮🇩 pidato panjang dan emosional

🇺🇦 пламенна промова

🇵🇱 długa i emocjonalna mowa

🇯🇵 長く感情的な演説

🇫🇷 discours long et passionné

🇪🇸 discurso largo y apasionado

🇹🇷 duygusal uzun konuşma

🇰🇷 감정적인 긴 연설

🇸🇦 خطاب طويل وعاطفي

🇨🇿 dlouhá a vášnivá řeč

🇸🇰 dlhá a vášnivá reč

🇨🇳 长而激动的演讲

🇸🇮 dolgo in strastno govora

🇮🇸 langt og ástríkt ræðu

🇰🇿 ұзақ әрі эмоциялық сөз сөйлеу

🇬🇪 გრძელი და ემოციური გამოსვლა

🇦🇿 uzun və emosional nitq

🇲🇽 discurso largo y apasionado

Word Frequency Rank

This word's position of #33,474 indicates it's among the more rare English words. While understanding it broadens your vocabulary, focus on more common words first.