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philippic

philippic

9.9
A long angry speech that criticizes someone or something
  • noun
  • /fɪˈlɪpɪk/
translation icon : filípica
  • She wrote a detailed philippic condemning the government's handling of the crisis.

Examples

  • Of course, this is just that brute Cicero ("Attack on an Enemy of Freedom (The Second Philippic against Antony)," 44 BC).

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  • The politician's philippic against his opponent drew widespread attention due to its harsh criticism.

  • His speech turned into a relentless philippic that left no doubt about his disapproval.

Synonyms

tirade
vsphilippic
25 7.7

A long angry speech that criticizes someone or something

is similar but can be any strong denunciation not only long speeches
diatribe
vsphilippic
23 8.5

A long angry attack in words against someone or something

leans more toward a formal public speech or writing
denunciation
vsphilippic
12 7.4

A public statement that strongly criticizes someone or something

is usually expressed as a specific speech or written attack rather than any act
broadside
vsphilippic
3 8.2

A strong public attack in speech or writing that criticizes someone

is a forceful speech or piece of writing that denounces publicly
denouncement
vsphilippic
  • Formal
1 7.7

A public statement that strongly criticizes someone or something

focuses more on a formal speech or written denunciation than the general act
vitriolic remark
vsphilippic
  • Offensive
8.9

A very harsh and angry comment meant to hurt someone

refers to a longer sustained denunciation rather than a single remark

Antonyms

161 1.0

Words or actions that show admiration for someone

commendation
  • Formal
39 6.8

An official award or letter praising someone for good work

How Critical

philippic
9.9
tirade
25 7.7
denunciation
12 7.4
rebuke
22 6.8
criticism
512 3.0

Surface Forms

philippic singular
philippics plural

Morphology

philippic = Philip (opaque) = Philip + ic

Formally derived from the proper name 'Philip' + '-ic', but the modern meaning 'bitter denunciation' refers to a historical series of speeches and is not inferable from the name.

Etymology

Philippic comes from the name Philip, because of famous angry speeches made 'against' King Philip of Macedon. So a philippic is a strong speech that attacks or strongly criticizes someone.