lash out

USAGE SUMMARY

"lash out" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
You can use it to describe a sudden outburst of anger or criticism. For example, "My boss lashed out in frustration when I accidentally deleted an important file."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Wiki

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

59 human-written examples

She would lash out".

The New Yorker

They lash out with analysis.

The New York Times

We need to lash out?

The Guardian - Books

I didn't lash out at anyone".

The New York Times - Sports

And so Americans lash out at Russia.

The New York Times

They lash out at the banks.

The New York Times

Do they lash out at strangers?

The New Yorker

"He will lash out and kill you".

The New Yorker

"They want somebody to lash out at.

The New York Times

They lash out but miss the ball.

The Guardian - Tech

Should they lash out or cringe?

The New York Times - Arts

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

When describing someone's behavior, use "lash out" to convey a sudden and often unexpected burst of anger or aggression, either verbally or physically. Be mindful of the context to ensure it accurately reflects the intensity and impulsiveness of the action.

Common error

Avoid using "lash out" when someone simply expresses disagreement or mild frustration. "Lash out" implies a stronger, more uncontrolled reaction than a calm or rational expression of opposing views.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "lash out" functions as a phrasal verb, indicating a sudden and forceful expression of anger or aggression. Ludwig AI confirms its proper usage in various contexts, as demonstrated by numerous examples.

Expression frequency: Very common

Frequent in

News & Media

62%

Wiki

25%

Formal & Business

5%

Less common in

Science

2%

Encyclopedias

1%

Reference

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

The phrase "lash out" is a commonly used phrasal verb that describes a sudden and forceful expression of anger or aggression. Ludwig AI confirms that this phrase is grammatically correct and versatile, appearing frequently in News & Media and Wiki contexts. When using "lash out", it's important to consider the intensity of the reaction you're describing, differentiating it from mere disagreement. Alternatives like ""react aggressively"" or "fly into a rage" can be used to vary your language. Remember, "lash out" vividly portrays an abrupt and often uncontrolled outburst.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

react aggressively

This alternative focuses on the aggressive nature of the reaction, rather than the suddenness.

fly into a rage

This alternative suggests a more extreme and uncontrolled expression of anger.

become violent

This phrase implies a physical manifestation of anger or frustration.

erupt in anger

This option emphasizes the sudden and explosive nature of the anger.

express anger

This alternative highlights the expression of anger, without specifying the intensity or suddenness.

blow up

This alternative is a more informal way of saying someone reacted with strong anger.

snap

This is a shorter, more informal way to describe a sudden outburst of anger.

respond angrily

This option focuses on the angry response, without necessarily implying a sudden outburst.

lose one's temper

This phrase indicates a loss of control over one's anger.

attack verbally

This focuses on the verbal aspect of the aggressive reaction.

FAQs

How can I use "lash out" in a sentence?

You can use "lash out" to describe someone's sudden, aggressive reaction. For example, "Feeling cornered, the animal began to "react aggressively" and "lash out"."

What's a good alternative to "lash out"?

Depending on the context, you can use phrases like "become violent", "express anger", or "fly into a rage" as alternatives to "lash out".

Is it correct to say someone "lashed in"?

No, the correct phrase is ""lash out"". The preposition "out" is essential to the meaning of the phrase, indicating an outward burst of emotion or action.

What's the difference between "lash out" and "retaliate"?

"Lash out" implies a sudden and often uncontrolled burst of anger or aggression, while "retaliate" suggests a more calculated and deliberate response to an action.