Definition of lash out

lash outphrasal verb

tấn công

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The origin of the phrase "lash out" can be traced back to the Middle English period, in which the term "lashen" referred to the action of striking or whipping with a whip or a lash, often used as a form of punishment or discipline. The verb "lash" originated from the Old Norse word "hlasja," meaning "to whip" or "to flagellate." When followed by the preposition "out," it took on the meaning of "acting suddenly and violently in response to a provocation or perceived threat," which is the modern-day use of the phrase "lash out." This figurative use of "lash out" first appeared in the mid-19th century, and it has since evolved to describe a wide range of behaviors, from physically outbreaks to emotional outbursts and verbal attacks. The use of "lash out" in contemporary English is to imply a forceful, impulsive, or aggressive action, with the potential for causing considerable damage or inflicting hurt.

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to suddenly try to hit somebody/something

đột nhiên cố gắng đánh ai đó/cái gì đó

Example:
  • She suddenly lashed out at the boy.

    Cô đột nhiên nổi giận với cậu bé.

  • He lashed out with his riding whip.

    Ông ta quất roi cưỡi ngựa.

to criticize somebody in an angry way

chỉ trích ai đó một cách tức giận

Example:
  • In a bitter article he lashed out at his critics.

    Trong một bài viết gay gắt, ông đã chỉ trích những người chỉ trích mình.

  • She suddenly lashed out in anger.

    Cô ấy đột nhiên nổi cơn thịnh nộ.