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harangue

Upper-Intermediate (B2)

IPA: /həˈræŋ/

KK: /həˈræŋ/

intransitive verb
Definition

To speak or write in a loud, forceful, and often critical manner, usually to express strong opinions or persuade others.


Example

He began to harangue the audience about the importance of voting.


Tense Forms

Past: harangued

Past Participle: harangued


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you hear Mike's speech at the rally yesterday?
Sloth B
Yeah, he really went on a harangue about climate change.
Sloth A
I know, right? It felt like he was trying to convince everyone to join the cause.
Sloth B
For sure! His passion really shone through during that harangue.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
rant
lecture
tirade
Antonyms
whisper
mumble
speak
noun
Definition

A long and forceful speech that often expresses strong opinions or emotions, usually directed at a group of people.


Example

The politician's harangue lasted for over an hour, captivating the audience with his passionate words.


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you hear that harangue the speaker gave at the meeting yesterday?
Sloth B
Yeah, it felt like it went on forever!
Sloth A
I know, right? I couldn't believe how intense that harangue was about our project.
Sloth B
transitive verb
Definition

To speak to someone in a loud and forceful way, often to criticize or persuade them.


Example

The politician gave a long harangue about the importance of voting.


Tense Forms

Past: harangued

Past Participle: harangued


Conversation
Sloth A
Did you hear how the teacher harangued us about homework yesterday?
Sloth B
Yeah, it felt like it went on forever!
Sloth A
I know, right? I almost zoned out during the whole harangue.
Sloth B
Root Explanation

Harangue comes from the French word 'harangue', which means a formal speech or discourse. The term itself is derived from the Old French 'haranguer', meaning to address or speak to a group, particularly in a loud or forceful manner. Thus, it refers to a lengthy and aggressive speech directed at an audience.

Memory Tip

Imagine someone giving a loud and forceful speech to a crowd — that's what a harangue is, stemming from the idea of addressing a group.

Visually Confused Words
unharangued
hardanger
harfang
arrange
Is this page helpful?
Totally! It definitely got everyone talking afterwards.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
tirade
diatribe
rant
Antonyms
praise
compliment
applause
Same here! I just hope next time it's a bit shorter.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
lecture
rant
address
Antonyms
praise
compliment
applaud