diatribe
Hard difficulty
What does “diatribe” mean?
a forceful and bitter verbal attack against someone or something.
SAT Usage
this term is often found in passages discussing politics, social issues, or literary criticism. It emphasizes a strong, passionate condemnation, suggesting not just disagreement but an intense and personal attack, which differentiates it from milder terms like "critique" or "review."
Common Confusions
Diatribe implies a forceful and personal verbal attack, while critique usually suggests a more balanced and analytical evaluation of something, often without the emotional intensity.
Do not choose diatribe if the context emphasizes praise or support rather than a forceful and bitter verbal attack against someone or something.
Example Sentences
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His lengthy diatribe against the policy bored the audience.