Explore the meaning, origins, and cultural significance of the phrase 'for crying out loud,' an exclamation of frustration with roots in early 20th-century American English.
For crying out loud is an exclamatory phrase used to express anger, frustration, or exasperation. It serves as a euphemistic substitute for more profane expressions, particularly “for Christ’s sake,” thereby softening the impact of the speaker’s emotional outburst.
The phrase “for crying out loud” is of American origin, emerging in the early 20th century, around the year 1900. It is widely believed to have been popularized by the cartoonist Thomas Aloysius Dorgan (1877–1929), known for his signature “TAD” and credited with coining various colloquial expressions. This phrase exemplifies the linguistic trend of creating euphemisms to replace potentially offensive religious references, aligning with broader societal norms of politeness and decorum (Oxford English Dictionary).
Semantically, “for crying out loud” conveys a sense of heightened emotional response, typically frustration or impatience. While it is a less severe expression compared to its more direct counterparts, it retains an emphatic tone, indicating the speaker’s urgent need to convey their feelings. The phrase’s euphemistic nature allows it to be used in a variety of contexts without breaching social etiquette.
In contemporary culture, “for crying out loud” is frequently used in both spoken and written discourse to convey mild irritation or disbelief. It appears in literature, film, and everyday conversation as a means of expressing exasperation without resorting to profanity. The phrase’s adaptability and non-offensive nature contribute to its enduring popularity.
In professional settings, “for crying out loud” may be used to express frustration in a manner that remains appropriate for the workplace. In social contexts, it serves as a versatile expression of exasperation among friends or family. In literary contexts, authors may employ the phrase to convey a character’s emotional state without resorting to explicit language.
“For crying out loud” maintains significant contemporary relevance due to its euphemistic nature and versatility. It is likely to continue being used as a means of expressing frustration without offending sensibilities. ★★★★☆
“For crying out loud, man, what are you doing?” - Stephen King, The Shining (1977)