scream blue murder

USAGE SUMMARY

"scream blue murder" is a correct and usable phrase in written English.
It is an idiom used to describe someone expressing extreme anger, often with a loud voice. For example, "When the teacher asked him to stay after class, John screamed blue murder."

✓ Grammatically correct

News & Media

Human-verified examples from authoritative sources

Exact Expressions

7 human-written examples

Double back at the Lewis log flume, scream Blue Murder, and run for your life (preferably towards Sun Hill).

The Guardian - TV & Radio

The kimono-clad obaachan behind the counter would scream blue murder for ruining the food and making the place smokier than ever.

The Economist

And it is unlikely to change Germans' contradictory attitude to reform: they accept the need for change, but scream blue murder when they have to pay to see their doctor.

The Economist

We scream blue murder when they outlaw the niqab in some European country or prevent [Muslims] from building minarets in another [European] country — even though these countries continue to allow freedom of religion, as manifest in the building of mosques and in the preaching [activity] that takes place in their courtyards.

The New York Times

Here's another stereotype that I don't feel comfortable with – it's the professional placard, quick to find offence where none is intended, quick to scream blue murder when they feel that they have been censored – but just as quick to pick up the tools of the oppressor when it suits them.

The Guardian - Opinion

John Spellar, Labour MP for Warley in the West Midlands and a critic of Corbyn, said: "If Tony Blair had behaved like this on such an important matter – trying to bypass the parliamentary party – Jeremy Corbyn and his like would have been the first to scream blue murder".

The Guardian

Human-verified similar examples from authoritative sources

Similar Expressions

53 human-written examples

The small-government right has started screaming blue murder about ballooning bureaucracy.

The Economist

The United States, which is the world's biggest oil importer, is screaming blue murder.

The Economist

I asked another member of the cabinet whether the spending ministers were screaming blue murder.

The Guardian - Opinion

You got a lot of people out there screaming blue murder for you and that hits the stomach.

The Guardian - Music

The director of the FBI has been screaming blue murder about encryption for as long as I can remember.

The Guardian - Opinion

Expert writing Tips

Best practice

To enhance clarity and impact, ensure the context makes it obvious what prompts the reaction. Adding specifics will amplify the expression.

Common error

Avoid using "scream blue murder" to describe mild disapproval or disagreement. The idiom signifies extreme anger or protest, not simply a polite objection. Ensure the situation warrants such a strong reaction.

Linguistic Context

The phrase "scream blue murder" functions as an idiomatic verb phrase, expressing a strong and often exaggerated protest or complaint. As Ludwig AI shows, it paints a vivid picture of intense displeasure.

Expression frequency: Uncommon

Frequent in

News & Media

100%

Less common in

Formal & Business

0%

Science

0%

Wiki

0%

Ludwig's WRAP-UP

In summary, "scream blue murder" is an idiomatic verb phrase signifying a loud and angry protest, best suited for informal contexts. Ludwig AI confirms its grammatical correctness, although its frequency is uncommon. The expression effectively conveys intense displeasure, but should be used judiciously to avoid overstatement. Consider alternative phrases like "protest vehemently" or "complain loudly" in more formal settings. The primary contexts of use are news and media.

More alternative expressions

Phrases that express similar concepts, ordered by semantic similarity:

object strongly

Emphasizes the firmness and conviction behind the objection.

complain loudly

Focuses on the audibility and public nature of the complaint.

express outrage

Highlights the feeling of shock and indignation.

strongly disapprove

Indicates a firm and clear lack of approval.

protest vehemently

Emphasizes the strength and passion behind the protest.

vociferously object

Stresses the forceful and loud expression of disagreement.

raise a hue and cry

Highlights the public outcry and commotion caused by the protest.

make an uproar

Suggests a scene of chaos and public disturbance.

kick up a row

Suggests a disruptive and noisy disturbance.

make a fuss

Implies a disproportionate reaction to a minor issue.

FAQs

What does "scream blue murder" mean?

The idiom "scream blue murder" means to protest very loudly and angrily, often in an exaggerated way. It suggests a strong expression of outrage or complaint.

How can I use "scream blue murder" in a sentence?

You can use it like this: "When they announced the budget cuts, the teachers "screamed blue murder"." This indicates they protested very loudly and angrily.

What are some alternatives to "scream blue murder"?

Alternatives include "protest vehemently", "complain loudly", or "raise a hue and cry". The best choice depends on the specific nuance you want to convey.

Is it appropriate to use "scream blue murder" in formal writing?

No, "scream blue murder" is an informal idiom. It's best suited for casual conversation or less formal writing. In formal contexts, opt for more neutral phrases like "strongly object" or "express strong disapproval".