Hectoring describes a manner of speaking characterized by bullying, nagging, or aggressively criticizing another person. It often involves an overbearing and domineering tone, aiming to intimidate or control the recipient. The goal of hectoring is typically to pressure someone into a desired action or response, often through persistent and unpleasant verbal tactics. It can manifest as constant correction, belittling remarks, or forceful demands, creating a hostile and uncomfortable environment. Essentially, hectoring is a form of verbal harassment designed to exert dominance.
Hectoring meaning with examples
- The manager's hectoring style made the team members dread meetings. Every suggestion was met with sharp criticism, and mistakes were amplified, making everyone walk on eggshells. This constant negativity created a highly unproductive work environment, stifling innovation and collaboration.
- Despite the child's tears, the coach continued his hectoring about their performance on the field. His relentless shouts of 'You're not trying hard enough!' and 'Do it again!' only served to crush their spirit and undermine their confidence and making the experience unenjoyable.
- The customer service representative endured a barrage of hectoring from the irate caller. The caller's raised voice and incessant demands for immediate action created an unnecessarily stressful situation, forcing the representative to remain calm. This shows how hectoring can be extremely draining.
- The politician's speech was riddled with hectoring pronouncements aimed at silencing opposition. Instead of engaging in civil discourse, the speaker resorted to personal attacks and condescending language, thus creating a polarized and toxic political climate among their listeners.
Hectoring Synonyms
browbeating bullying chiding coercing domineering haranguing intimidating lecture nagging rebuking reprimand scoldingHectoring Antonyms
civil complimentary considerate encouraging gentle kind praising soothing supportiveHectoring Crossword Answers
7 Letters
NAGGING