a public outcry

USAGE SUMMARY

'a public outcry' is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to refer to a vocal reaction by a large group of people that shows their disapproval or outrage about a certain event or incident. For example, "After the bill's passage, there was a public outcry from citizens who felt it was unfair legislation."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

60 human-written examples

A public outcry ensued.

The New York Times

It stirred a public outcry.

The Economist

"It's a public outcry.

The New York Times

So did a public outcry for reform.

The New Yorker

After a public outcry, four were spared.

The New York Times

Well-publicised prosecutions followed a public outcry.

The Economist

(They were reinvited after a public outcry).

The New York Times - Books

There was a public outcry.

The New York Times - Science

After a public outcry, it was stopped.

The New York Times

Why isn't there a public outcry?

The Guardian

The column touched off a public outcry.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "a public outcry", ensure the context clearly establishes what the public is protesting or expressing outrage about. Provide specific details to enhance clarity and impact.

Common error

Avoid attributing a "public outcry" to a single individual or small group. Ensure the reaction is genuinely widespread and not just the opinion of a few.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "a public outcry" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. Ludwig AI indicates it describes a strong expression of disapproval or protest from a significant portion of the population, as seen in many of the examples provided.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

80%

Encyclopedias

10%

Science

5%

Less common in

Wiki

3%

Formal & Business

1%

Social Media

1%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "a public outcry" is a common noun phrase used to describe a strong, collective expression of disapproval or protest. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and frequent usage, particularly in news and media contexts. When using this phrase, ensure that the context clearly defines the cause of the outcry and that the reaction is genuinely widespread. Alternatives such as "a wave of public protest" or "a chorus of disapproval" can provide nuanced variations in meaning. Be mindful of misattributing the outcry to a small group, ensuring that it truly represents broader public sentiment. The phrase is suitable for neutral and objective reporting and should be used to accurately depict instances of significant public disapproval.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

a wave of public protest

This alternative emphasizes the widespread nature of the protest, suggesting a large number of people are involved.

a chorus of disapproval

This alternative uses a metaphor to describe the collective expression of disagreement or condemnation.

mass public dissent

This alternative highlights the disagreement or opposition of a large group of people to a particular decision or policy.

widespread indignation

This alternative focuses on the feeling of anger or annoyance provoked by perceived unfair treatment.

a storm of controversy

This phrase suggests a heated and prolonged dispute involving the public.

a groundswell of opposition

This alternative implies a growing and increasingly powerful resistance to something.

public furor

This option denotes intense anger and excitement in a community.

a hubbub of complaints

This alternative emphasizes the noise and commotion arising from numerous complaints.

a roar of public discontent

This alternative suggests a loud and forceful expression of dissatisfaction among the population.

collective condemnation

This phrase highlights the unified and formal expression of disapproval.

FAQs

How can I use "a public outcry" in a sentence?

You can use "a public outcry" to describe a strong expression of disapproval or protest from a large group of people. For example, "The company's decision to close the factory led to "a public outcry".".

What are some alternatives to "a public outcry"?

Alternatives to "a public outcry" include "a wave of public protest", "a chorus of disapproval", or "mass public dissent" depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "a public outcry" formal or informal?

"A public outcry" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, though it is often found in news reports and journalistic writing, which tend to be neutral in tone.

What triggers "a public outcry"?

"A public outcry" is typically triggered by events or decisions perceived as unjust, unfair, or harmful to the public interest. Examples include controversial policy changes, corporate scandals, or government actions that violate public trust.