PhrasesHub

For crying out loud

    Definitions

      • expressing frustration or annoyance
        Used when someone is exasperated or irritated by a situation or another person's actions.

      • emphasizing a point or request
        Used to add emphasis to a statement or request, often in a pleading or desperate tone.

    Examples of For crying out loud

    • "Why did you spill coffee all over the table again? For crying out loud, can't you be more careful?"

      This idiom is used when expressing frustration or annoyance at someone's actions. It is equivalent to saying "why on earth" or "for goodness sake". The phrase "for crying out loud" is a humorous way of saying "for the sake of crying out loud", implying that crying out loud would not be a reasonable response to the situation, but it is used to emphasize the speaker's frustration.


    Conclusion

    The idiom "for crying out loud" is commonly used in informal settings to express frustration or annoyance. It can also be used to add emphasis to a statement or request, usually in a pleading or desperate tone. It is a versatile phrase that can convey a range of emotions, from mild irritation to exasperation.

    Origin of "For crying out loud"

    The origin of the phrase "for crying out loud" is uncertain, but it is believed to have originated in the United Kingdom in the mid-20th century. Some sources suggest that it may have evolved from the phrase "for Christ's sake," which was considered too vulgar to say in polite company. Over time, the phrase was softened to "for crying out loud" as a less offensive alternative.

    Another theory is that the phrase originated as a way to express frustration without using profanity. In this sense, "crying out loud" could be seen as a euphemism for cursing or swearing. The phrase may have gained popularity due to its catchiness and versatility in expressing a range of emotions.

    Regardless of its exact origin, "for crying out loud" has become a commonly used phrase in the English language. It is often used in informal conversations and can be heard in various forms of media, such as movies, TV shows, and songs. Its widespread usage has solidified its place as a well-known idiom in the English language.