Decry
/dɪˈkraɪ/
verbC1
Definition
To decry something means to openly criticize it and say it is wrong or bad. People usually decry things they do not like or think are harmful. It is a strong way to express disapproval, often used in serious or formal situations.
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⚡ See It in Action
To publicly say something is bad or wrong
- •Many experts decry the increase in air pollution.
- •The group decried the government's decision as unfair.
- •Activists decry violence in their community.
To express strong disapproval openly and clearly
- •She decried the poor quality of the new product.
- •The article decries the rise of fake news online.
🧲 Make It Stick
- ✓Think of "decry" like "say bad" but much stronger and louder, like telling many people that something is wrong
- ✓Picture a person standing on a stage, loudly telling a crowd that a new law is unfair and should be stopped
- ✓It's the feeling when you are very upset about something and want others to know it is bad or harmful
- ✓Sounds like "de-CRY" → imagine someone crying out loudly to warn others about a problem
- ✓Think of news reporters or activists who decry pollution to make people aware and act
- ✓NOT like "complain" (which can be quiet or personal), "decry" is public and forceful criticism
- ✓NOT like "ignore" (which means not paying attention), "decry" means paying strong attention and speaking out
- ✓NOT like "dislike" (a simple feeling), "decry" is a clear and loud statement against something
🔄 Try Other Words
- •Condemn: to say something is very bad or wrong (Use when you want to show strong moral or ethical disapproval)
- •Denounce: to publicly say something is wrong or bad (Use in formal or serious contexts like politics or law)
- •Criticize: to point out faults or problems (Use in less formal situations or personal feedback)
🔍 Unboxing
- •Word parts: prefix "de-" (down, away) + root "cry" (to shout or say loudly)
- •Etymology: From Old French "decrier," meaning to cry out or shout against
- •Historical development: Used since the 1400s to mean loudly expressing disapproval or complaint
- •Modern usage: Common in formal speech or writing to express strong public criticism
💭 Reflect & Connect
•When is it important to decry something instead of just quietly disagreeing?
•How can decrying a problem help create change in society or communities?
Fill in the blanks with the correct word:
1.People often decry ___ when they believe it harms the environment.
2.The politician decried the new policy because it ___ many citizens.
3.Unlike simple complaints, decrying usually happens ___ in public or media.
4.Activists decry ___ to raise awareness and encourage action.
5.When someone decries an issue, they want others to ___ about it too.
6.Decry is stronger than criticize because it shows ___ disapproval.
7.If you only dislike something quietly, you do not ___ it.