Diatribe
hardNegative toneDY-uh-tryb
noun
Definition
A forceful and bitter verbal attack against someone or something
Memory hook
DIA-TRIBE: an angry TRIBE launches a bitter verbal attack — a forceful, bitter criticism.
Word roots
Learning roots unlocks whole word families. Study common GRE root words.
Examples
“The senator launched into a diatribe against government waste.”
“His diatribe against modern art lasted nearly an hour.”
Test yourself
Fill in the blank with the right word:
“The senator launched into a ______ against government waste.”
Show answer
diatribe
Categories
GRE Tip
Diatribe is a hard-difficulty GRE word. On the GRE, you might see it paired with synonyms like "tirade" or "harangue" in Sentence Equivalence questions. Look for contrast clues (however, despite, although) that signal the opposite meaning. Words like "eulogy".
Related GRE Words
harangue
A lengthy, aggressive speech; to lecture aggressively
tirade
A long, angry speech of criticism or accusation
polemic
a strong verbal or written attack on a belief or opinion
invective
Insulting, abusive, or highly critical language
castigate
To criticize or reprimand severely
decry
To publicly denounce or criticize
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