Differences between freak out and lash out
Freak out means to become extremely anxious, upset, or scared about something, while lash out means to suddenly express anger or frustration towards someone or something.
Meanings and Definitions: freak out vs lash out
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
Freak out
- 1Become very disturbed or angry.
She FREAKED OUT completely when she didn't get the grades to get into university.
Lash out
- 1Suddenly become violent.
He LASHED OUT and broke the man's nose.
- 2React angrily.
He LASHES OUT when things don't go his way.
- 3Spend a lot of money on luxuries.
I LASHED OUT in the sales last week.
Usage Examples: freak out, lash out in Sentences
Learn how to use these expressions through these examples
freak out
Example
I always freak out when I see a spider.
Example
She freaks out whenever she has to speak in public.
lash out
Example
When he gets angry, he tends to lash out at others.
Example
She lashes out when she feels cornered.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Freak out
To feel sudden and intense fear or anxiety.
Example
He panicked when he saw the spider crawling towards him.
Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Lash out
explode
To suddenly express strong emotions, especially anger or frustration.
Example
He exploded when he found out his car had been towed.
blow up
To suddenly express anger or frustration in an explosive way.
Example
He blew up when he found out that his project had been cancelled.
Explore more Phrasal Verbs
Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles
Phrasal Verbs with “lash”
Differences in freak out vs lash out: Usage, Formality, and Tone
Frequency in Daily Use: freak out or lash out?
In everyday conversation, people use freak out more often than lash out. This is because freak out is used to describe a common emotional response to stressful situations, while lash out is less common and usually describes a sudden outburst of anger or frustration.
Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of freak out and lash out
Freak out and lash out are informal phrases often used in casual conversations. They are suitable for everyday interactions with friends and family. In more formal settings like business or academic contexts, using alternative expressions can convey a more polished tone.
Tone and Implication: The Nuances of freak out and lash out
The tone of freak out and lash out can differ based on context. Freak out often carries a worried or panicked tone, while lash out typically has an aggressive or defensive tone.
