What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
harangue
Example
The coach gave a harangue to the team after their poor performance. [harangue: noun]
Example
The politician harangued the crowd, trying to convince them to vote for him. [harangued: past tense]
lecture
Example
The professor gave a lecture on the history of art. [lecture: noun]
Example
The guest speaker lectured the audience on the importance of environmental conservation. [lectured: past tense]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Lecture is more commonly used than harangue in everyday language. Lecture is a versatile word that can be used in various contexts, such as academic settings or public speaking events. On the other hand, harangue is less common and is typically used in situations where someone is being criticized or bullied.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between harangue and lecture?
Lecture is generally considered more formal than harangue. While lecture is often used in academic or professional settings, harangue is typically associated with an informal or confrontational tone.