Harangue
/həˈræŋ/
nounverbC1
Definition
A harangue is a long speech that is usually loud and forceful. It often shows strong feelings like anger or frustration. People use harangues to try to convince others or to criticize them in a strong way.
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See It in Action
A long, forceful, and angry speech or talk
- •The coach gave a harangue to the team after their bad performance.
- •She launched into a harangue about the poor service at the restaurant.
- •The politician’s harangue lasted for over an hour, criticizing his opponents.
To speak or deliver such a speech
- •He harangued the crowd about the need for change.
- •The teacher harangued the students for not doing their homework.
Make It Stick
- ✓Think of "harangue" like "talk," but much longer and stronger, often with anger or passion.
- ✓Picture someone standing on a stage, speaking loudly and seriously to a crowd, trying hard to make them listen.
- ✓It's the feeling when a teacher scolds a class for not paying attention, speaking firmly and at length.
- ✓Sounds like "her-RANG" → imagine a bell ringing loudly and repeatedly, like a loud, strong speech that keeps going.
- ✓In stories, harangues happen when a character gives a big speech to motivate or warn others.
- ✓NOT like "chat" (short and friendly talk); a harangue is serious and often angry.
- ✓NOT like "lecture" (can be calm and educational); a harangue is more emotional and forceful.
- ✓NOT like "shout" (just loud noise); a harangue is a long speech with clear words and strong feelings.
Try Other Words
- •Rant: a long, angry, and loud speech (Use when the speech is more emotional and less organized)
- •Lecture: a formal talk, often educational (Use when the speech is calm and meant to teach)
- •Tirade: a long, angry speech full of criticism (Use when the speech is very angry and attacking)
Unboxing
- •Word parts: (no clear prefix or suffix; root word from older forms)
- •Etymology: From French "harangue," from Italian "aringa," meaning a public speech or address
- •Historical development: Used since the 1500s to mean a formal or forceful public speech, often critical
- •Modern usage: Used to describe long, angry speeches or talks, often to criticize or persuade strongly
Reflect & Connect
•When might a harangue be helpful instead of just a calm talk?
•How do people usually feel after listening to a harangue? Does it change their opinion?
Fill in the blanks
1.The manager’s harangue was triggered by the team’s ___ performance during the project.
2.After the harangue, the audience felt ___ rather than inspired or happy.
3.Unlike a friendly conversation, a harangue usually ___ strong emotions like anger or frustration.
4.People often say someone is ___ when they give a long, angry speech without stopping.
5.The politician’s harangue was filled ___ criticism and warnings about the future.
6.When someone harangues, they usually want to ___ others to change their behavior or ideas.
7.You can tell a harangue is happening when the speaker’s voice is loud and ___, not soft or calm.