Barrage

A concentrated artillery bombardment over a wide area. Metaphorically, it describes a concentrated outpouring of something, like verbal attacks, questions, or complaints. The intensity and sustained nature is key; a barrage signifies an overwhelming amount of force or a rapid succession of elements directed at a target, whether physical or abstract. It can inflict significant damage or overwhelm its intended target, depending on the context. The term encapsulates a sense of being overwhelmed or bombarded by relentless force, leaving little room for response or resistance.

Barrage meaning with examples

• The soldiers hunkered down in their trenches, bracing for the enemy's relentless artillery barrage. Shells exploded around them, shaking the ground and filling the air with smoke, a terrifying symphony of destruction. The barrage lasted for hours, a test of their endurance and a constant threat to their lives. Survival depended on their ability to endure the onslaught.
• The politician faced a barrage of questions from the press, each one probing and challenging. She answered each with measured responses, but the relentless questioning continued, trying to trip her up. The media's barrage tested her composure and forced her to carefully craft each statement to maintain control over the narrative. The barrage seemed unending.
• After the controversial statement, the company received a barrage of complaints and negative reviews online. Social media users bombarded them with criticism, and the public outcry created a PR crisis. The sudden barrage of negativity forced the company to issue an apology and launch damage control measures. The rapid response demonstrated the public's power.
• The defendant endured a barrage of evidence presented by the prosecution during the trial. Each piece of evidence was presented to build an ever more compelling case against him, creating a seemingly insurmountable obstacle. The sheer volume and weight of evidence overwhelmed his defense, and he was left looking powerless. The relentless nature of the barrage felt impossible to defend against.
• Following the success of the film, the actor received a barrage of offers from filmmakers and producers. They were all trying to leverage the actor's newfound popularity, resulting in an endless stream of meetings, proposals, and scripts. The barrage of opportunities was exciting but also overwhelming. The actor felt the immense pressure of picking the right project to secure their longevity.