top of page
The Complete Vocabulary Builder Workbook

harangue

IPA:

How to pronounce harangue (audio)

Dictionary definition of harangue

A long, angry, and aggressive speech, typically delivered in a public or formal setting.
"The football team were given the usual half-time harangue by their manager."

Detailed meaning of harangue

It implies a strong emotional reaction and a desire to persuade or convince others through the use of strong language and rhetoric. The word comes from the French word "haranguer" which means "to address in a bombastic or aggressive manner."

A harangue can take many forms, such as a speech, an article, or a public statement. It often implies a sense of anger or frustration, and a desire to make a change or to call attention to an issue. It can be directed at a specific person or group, or at a broader audience.

A harangue is often seen as a negative trait, as it implies a lack of diplomacy, tact, and respect for others. It can also be seen as a form of aggression or hostility, and it can be perceived as disrespectful or impolite. It can also be viewed as a sign of poor communication skills, as the person is not able to express themselves in a more measured or nuanced way. Haranguing can also be seen as a form of bullying or intimidating others.

Example sentences containing harangue

1. The politician delivered a fiery harangue against his opponents.
2. Her harangue about environmental conservation resonated with the crowd.
3. The general's harangue inspired the troops before battle.
4. The coach's halftime harangue motivated the team to victory.
5. The teacher gave the students a stern harangue about punctuality.
6. He launched into a passionate harangue about social justice.

History and etymology of harangue

The noun 'harangue' finds its origins in the Old Italian word 'aranciare,' which means 'to publicize' or 'to make a public speech.' This term was later borrowed into the French language as 'harangue,' retaining its meaning of a public address or speech. In English, it entered the language in the 16th century, referring to a lengthy, forceful, and often critical or aggressive speech delivered in a public or formal setting. The evolution of the word 'harangue' reflects its nature as a passionate and sometimes overbearing discourse used to convey strong opinions or arguments.

Quiz: Find the meaning of the noun harangue:

Try Again!

Correct!

Further usage examples of harangue

1. The boss's harangue about productivity left the employees demoralized.
2. The activist delivered a stirring harangue at the protest rally.
3. The principal's harangue on school discipline was stern but necessary.
4. The courtroom was silent as the attorney delivered a powerful harangue.
5. The president's harangue on immigration policy sparked controversy.
6. The preacher's harangue on sin and redemption moved the congregation.
7. The captain's harangue motivated the team to fight till the end.
8. The harangue by the union leader called for fair wages and better conditions.
9. The critic's harangue about the film's shortcomings was scathing.
10. His harangue on fiscal responsibility resonated with many voters.
11. The journalist's harangue on government corruption stirred debate.
12. The speaker's harangue on religious tolerance was well-received.
13. The mother's harangue about safety precautions was heartfelt.
14. The CEO's harangue emphasized the importance of company values.
15. The harangue by the activist inspired a call to action.
16. The harangue by the coach challenged the athletes to give their all.
17. The professor's harangue on academic integrity was a wake-up call.
18. The harangue by the CEO motivated employees to strive for excellence.
19. The candidate's harangue outlined a vision for a brighter future.

Advocacy and Support, Interaction and Articulation, Hegemony and Hierarchies, Governance and Authority, Strength and Resilience, Conversation and Expression

criticism,diatribe,exhortation,jeremiad,lecture,reprimand,sermon,spiel,tirade

diatribe, praise, compliment, laud

eb68db_545bb1b20a41422da0edc9c53500dc1a.mp3

rant

bottom of page