assail him

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "assail him" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used when describing an action of attacking or criticizing someone, either physically or verbally. Example: "During the debate, the candidate began to assail him with harsh accusations and personal attacks."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Encyclopedias

Science

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

25 human-written examples

I'll assail him with ideas like "Wolf Blitzer versus Blitzkriegs".

The New York Times

Conversely, is it fair to continually assail him for falling short of the top?

The New York Times - Sports

His Arab critics assail him as a traitor on an almost daily basis.

The New York Times

He is spry; no aches and pains such as old men feel assail him.

The New York Times

They mock and assail him, call him a disgrace, a punch line, a pretender-king.

The New Yorker

That retirement at specific times seems the only answer to the barrage of questions and doubts that assail him?

The Guardian - Sport

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

35 human-written examples

FoxNews.com assailed him for "stupidity".

The New York Times

"I'm not assailing him personally, Katie".

The New York Times

Demons — or a lifetime of internalized voices — assailed him.

The New York Times - Arts

"Seeming, seeming!" she screams before assailing him with her fists.

The Guardian

Left-wing members of Parliament assailed him for going along with NATO.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

Use "assail him" when you want to convey a sense of forceful or vehement attack, whether physical or verbal. It adds a layer of intensity compared to simpler terms like "attack him".

Common error

Avoid using "assail him" in casual conversations or informal writing, as it can sound overly dramatic or out of place. Opt for simpler alternatives like "criticize him" or "attack him" in those situations.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "assail him" functions as a verb phrase where "assail" is a transitive verb requiring an object ("him"). It describes the action of attacking someone vigorously. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness and usability.

Expression frequency: Common

Frequent in

News & Media

70%

Encyclopedias

10%

Science

10%

Less common in

Formal & Business

5%

Wiki

2%

Reference

3%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, the phrase "assail him" is a grammatically sound and relatively common way to describe a forceful attack on someone, either physically or verbally. As Ludwig AI confirms, it is correct and usable in English. While versatile, it is important to consider the context and avoid overuse in very informal settings, where simpler alternatives may be more appropriate. Its usage is prevalent in news and media, encyclopedias and scientific contexts, making it a valuable addition to one's vocabulary for expressing strong criticism or aggression.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

attack him

Replaces "assail" with the more common and direct verb "attack".

criticize him

Focuses on verbal attacks and disapproval rather than physical assault.

berate him

Implies scolding or criticizing someone forcefully and at length.

lambast him

Means to criticize someone harshly.

denounce him

Suggests a public and formal condemnation.

reproach him

Indicates expressing disapproval or disappointment.

censure him

Implies formal disapproval or condemnation.

castigate him

Emphasizes severe punishment or criticism.

rail against him

Suggests a vehement protest or complaint.

take him to task

To reprimand or criticize someone for a mistake or wrongdoing.

FAQs

How can I use "assail him" in a sentence?

The phrase "assail him" is used to describe a forceful attack, either physically or verbally. For example, "His Arab critics "assail him" as a traitor on an almost daily basis."

What are some alternatives to "assail him"?

You can use alternatives like "attack him", "criticize him", or "berate him", depending on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is "assail him" appropriate for formal writing?

Yes, "assail him" is suitable for formal writing, particularly when you want to emphasize the intensity of the attack or criticism. However, consider your audience and the overall tone of your writing.

What is the difference between "assail him" and "attack him"?

"Assail him" suggests a more vehement and forceful attack than "attack him". "Assail" implies a more aggressive and overwhelming assault, while "attack" is a more general term.