lash out
phr. v.. B1 Intermediate Oxford
phr. v.. to attack or hit someone suddenly, usually because of anger.
phr. v.. to strike or attack suddenly and violently, often as a reaction to provocation or frustration; the particle 'out' intensifies the action and implies impulsiveness.
He lashed out at the dog when it barked.
After the argument, she lashed out at her friend in anger.
The frustrated manager lashed out at the employee during the meeting, causing tension.
- Particles
- out
- Separability
- inseparable
- Pattern
- lash + out + object
Usage
typically followed by a direct object indicating the target of the action.
Teaching tip
contrast with 'scream' or 'yell' (verbal only) and 'hit' (more neutral); 'lash out' carries emotional intensity and suddenness.