barrage of hostility

USAGE SUMMARY

The phrase "barrage of hostility" is correct and usable in written English.
It can be used to describe an overwhelming or intense outpouring of negative feelings or aggressive behavior directed towards someone or something. Example: "After the controversial decision was announced, the politician faced a barrage of hostility from the public and the media."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

4 human-written examples

But the coalition endured a barrage of hostility.

The New York Times

One of them, Newt Gingrich, a former speaker of the House, says the EPA should be abolished altogether and an "environmental solutions agency" more sympathetic to business set up in its stead.EPA officials appear baffled by this barrage of hostility.

The Economist

Like Jasmine née Jeanette, Allen, of course, also endured (in the early nineties) the shattering of his public identity and a barrage of hostility; like her, he was rejected by one of his children in the wake of scandal.

The New Yorker

Women in France struggle even more than in other advanced industrial societies to assume leading positions in politics (the law on parité, for example, is openly flouted by all parties) – and when they do break through the glass ceiling, female politicians face an exceptional barrage of hostility: Édith Cresson is the only woman to have served as prime minister, and she lasted less than a year.

The Guardian - Books

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

56 human-written examples

When asked whether he enjoys the company of women, "Horner's language in a constant barrage of hostile wit, discharging hostility which cannot, at the moment, be directly expressed.

Wikipedia

Instinctively the left is practised at leaping to the defence of Europe against a constant barrage of rightwing hostility.

The Guardian - Opinion

Undertones of hostility and resentment".

Independent

There's a lot of hostility there.

The New York Times

No community "deserves" this type of hostility.

The New York Times

It arrived in an atmosphere of hostility.

The New York Times - Arts

It brings increased feelings of hostility.

The New York Times

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When using "barrage of hostility", consider the intensity and duration you want to convey. This phrase is most effective when describing a sustained and overwhelming negative reaction.

Common error

While effective, "barrage of hostility" can become repetitive. Vary your language by using synonyms like "onslaught of animosity" or "deluge of hostility" to maintain reader engagement.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "barrage of hostility" functions as a noun phrase, typically serving as the subject or object of a sentence. Ludwig AI confirms its usability in written English to describe intense negative feelings. The examples from Ludwig showcase its application in diverse contexts.

Expression frequency: Rare

Frequent in

News & Media

75%

Wiki

25%

Formal & Business

0%

Less common in

Science

0%

Academia

0%

Encyclopedias

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "barrage of hostility" is a grammatically correct and usable phrase that effectively conveys an intense outpouring of negative feelings or aggressive behavior. Ludwig AI confirms that it follows standard grammar rules. Although its frequency is rare, it's commonly found in News & Media, according to the provided examples. For alternatives, consider "deluge of hostility" or "onslaught of animosity" to add nuance and variety to your writing. When using the phrase, make sure the context warrants such a strong expression of negativity.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

deluge of hostility

This alternative suggests an overwhelming and sudden downpour of negative feelings, similar to a "barrage", but emphasizes the intensity and abundance.

onslaught of animosity

This phrase replaces "barrage" with "onslaught", implying a fierce and sustained attack of negative feelings or behavior.

torrent of antagonism

Using "torrent" emphasizes the continuous and forceful flow of opposition or dislike.

outburst of hatred

This suggests a sudden and uncontrolled expression of intense dislike or aversion.

storm of resentment

This alternative uses "storm" to convey a turbulent and intense period of bitterness or indignation.

wave of aggression

This phrase suggests a surge or sudden increase in hostile behavior or feelings.

flood of bitterness

Similar to "deluge", this alternative implies an overwhelming abundance of negative feelings.

eruption of malice

This suggests a sudden and violent outbreak of ill will or spite.

fusillade of criticism

Replacing "hostility" with "criticism" focuses on the verbal attacks or disapproval.

attack of aggression

This phrase replaces barrage and focuses on the agressive intent.

FAQs

How can I use "barrage of hostility" in a sentence?

You can use "barrage of hostility" to describe an overwhelming and intense outpouring of negative feelings or aggressive behavior directed at someone or something. For example: "After the controversial decision, the politician faced a "barrage of hostility" from the public."

What are some alternatives to "barrage of hostility"?

Alternatives include "deluge of hostility", "onslaught of animosity", or "torrent of antagonism", each carrying slightly different nuances of intensity and duration.

Is "barrage of hostility" a formal or informal phrase?

"Barrage of hostility" is suitable for both formal and informal contexts, although it is more frequently found in news and media reporting due to its descriptive power in conveying intense conflict or opposition.

What's the difference between "barrage of hostility" and "wave of criticism"?

"Barrage of hostility" implies a stronger, more aggressive reaction that includes animosity and potentially aggressive actions, whereas "wave of criticism" suggests widespread disapproval or negative feedback without necessarily implying intense hatred or aggression.