# lash out at

CEFR B2 · Phrasal verb

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/lash-out-at
Updated: 2026-04-24

## Definition

to attack or criticize someone suddenly and angrily.

For teachers: to strike or attack suddenly and violently; to criticize or express anger towards someone in an uncontrolled manner.

## Examples

- He lashed out at his brother after the argument.
- During the meeting, she lashed out at the manager for the poor performance.
- The frustrated artist, unable to contain his rage, lashed out at the canvas with bold, chaotic strokes.

## Pitfalls

- Not "He lashed out of his brother" but "He lashed out at his brother" — the preposition 'at' is required to indicate the target of the action.

## Usage notes

- followed by a person or thing being attacked or criticized.
- Teaching tip: contrast with 'yell at' (more vocal) and 'scream at' (more intense); 'lash out at' emphasizes physical or verbal aggression in the moment.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.