Remonstrance
/rɪˈmɒnstrəns/
nounC2
Definition
Remonstrance is when someone speaks or writes to strongly say they disagree with something or think it is wrong. It is usually a formal or serious way to complain or protest about a decision, action, or situation. People use remonstrance to express their strong feelings that something should change.
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See It in Action
A formal protest or complaint made clearly and seriously
- •The workers sent a remonstrance to the company about unsafe conditions.
- •The citizens wrote a remonstrance to the government asking to change the law.
- •His remonstrance against the unfair decision was carefully written and polite.
The act of expressing strong disagreement or disapproval
- •She made a remonstrance during the meeting to oppose the new policy.
- •The teacher listened to the student's remonstrance about the unfair grading.
Make It Stick
- ✓Think of "remonstrance" like "complaint," but much stronger and more formal—like sending a serious letter or speaking clearly to explain why you are upset
- ✓Picture a group of people raising their hands and speaking loudly to a leader, asking for change because they believe something is unfair
- ✓It’s the feeling when you strongly tell a teacher or boss that a rule or decision is wrong and needs to be fixed
- ✓Sounds like "re-MON-stance" → imagine someone taking a strong STAND (stance) to say NO or disagree clearly
- ✓Think of famous protests or letters where people explained why they were unhappy with a law or decision, like a formal argument
- ✓NOT like a small or quiet complaint—remonstrance is loud, clear, and serious
- ✓NOT like simply saying "no"—it includes explaining reasons and showing strong feelings
- ✓NOT like "argument" which can be informal or angry—remonstrance is more formal and respectful but firm
Try Other Words
- •Protest: a public or formal expression of disagreement (Use when people show disagreement in public or groups)
- •Objection: a statement of disapproval or disagreement (Use when formally disagreeing, often in meetings or discussions)
- •Criticism: pointing out faults or problems (Use when focusing on faults, not just disagreement)
Unboxing
- •Word parts: "re-" (again, back) + "monstr" (from Latin "monstrare," meaning to show) + "-ance" (noun suffix showing action or state)
- •Etymology: From Latin "remonstrantia," meaning the act of showing or pointing out again, especially to protest
- •Historical development: Used since the 1500s in English to describe formal protests or serious complaints
- •Modern usage: Mostly used in formal or written language to describe strong, clear protests or objections
Reflect & Connect
•When is it important to use remonstrance instead of a simple complaint or protest?
•How can making a remonstrance help solve problems in a respectful way?
Fill in the blanks
1.The employees wrote a remonstrance ___ the unsafe working conditions to the manager.
2.A remonstrance usually includes clear reasons and ___ for disagreement.
3.Unlike a simple complaint, a remonstrance is often ___ and formal.
4.People make a remonstrance when they want to ___ a decision or action seriously.
5.The remonstrance was sent ___ the government to ask for a law change.
6.During the meeting, her remonstrance showed ___ about the new policy.
7.A remonstrance is not just saying "no," but explaining ___ why something is wrong.