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Phrasal verbs "lash out at" vs "lash out on"

Differences between lash out at and lash out on

Lash out at means to suddenly and angrily criticize or attack someone verbally or physically, while lash out on means to spend a lot of money on something.

Meanings and Definitions: lash out at vs lash out on

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

Lash out at

  • 1Hit someone suddenly, usually without warning, or try to hit them.

    He LASHED OUT AT me when I laughed at him.

  • 2Criticise someone or shout at them.

    She LASHED OUT AT her colleagues when she was sacked.

Lash out on

  • 1Spend a lot of money buying something.

    I LASHED OUT a lot ON a new car.

Usage Examples: lash out at, lash out on in Sentences

Learn how to use these expressions through these examples

lash out at

Example

He lashed out at his friend for making fun of him.

Example

She lashes out at her coworkers when she's stressed.

lash out on

Example

She decided to lash out on a designer handbag.

Example

He lashes out on expensive gadgets every time he gets a bonus.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Lash out at

snap at

To speak sharply or angrily to someone, often in response to something they said or did.

Example

He snapped at his coworker when she interrupted him during the meeting.

blow up at

To suddenly and angrily criticize or attack someone verbally or physically.

Example

She blew up at her boyfriend when he forgot their anniversary.

freak out on

To suddenly and angrily criticize or attack someone verbally or physically.

Example

He freaked out on his roommate when he found out he ate his food without asking.

Similar Expressions(Synonyms) of Lash out on

splurge on

To spend a lot of money on something that is not necessary or extravagant.

Example

She decided to splurge on a designer handbag for her birthday.

indulge in

To allow oneself to enjoy something that is considered luxurious or pleasurable.

Example

He likes to indulge in expensive wines on special occasions.

treat oneself to

To do or buy something special or luxurious for oneself as a reward or treat.

Example

After a long week at work, she decided to treat herself to a spa day.

Explore more Phrasal Verbs

Here are some phrasal verbs with the same verbs or particles

Phrasal Verbs with “lash”

Phrasal Verbs with “out at”

Differences in lash out at vs lash out on: Usage, Formality, and Tone

Frequency in Daily Use: lash out at or lash out on?

In daily conversation, people use lash out at more often than lash out on. This is because lash out at is used to describe a common behavior of getting angry and criticizing someone, while lash out on is not used as frequently. It's mainly used when we're talking about spending a lot of money on something. So, while both phrases are used, lash out at is more common in everyday conversation.

Informal vs Formal: Contextual Use of lash out at and lash out on

Lash out at and lash out on 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 lash out at and lash out on

The tone of lash out at and lash out on can differ based on context. Lash out at often carries a negative or aggressive tone when related to criticizing or attacking someone, while lash out on typically has a positive or excited tone, especially when referring to buying something enjoyable.

lash out at & lash out on: Synonyms and Antonyms

Lash out on

Synonyms

  • splurge on
  • spend a lot on
  • invest in
  • expend on
  • shell out for
  • pay a lot for

Antonyms

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