For Crying Out Loud - exclaimed 😫
Definition:
“For crying out loud” — An exclamation of anger, frustration, or impatience.
Origin:
This colorful phrase is a euphemism for “for Christ’s sake.” It’s of American origin and dates back to around 1900. Some suggest it was coined by the cartoonist Thomas Aloysius Dorgan (1877–1929), known as TAD, who is also credited with penning the term “hot dog.”
Related and Similar Terms:
- For goodness’ sake - A softer, more grandmother-friendly version.
- For Pete’s sake - Questionably, Pete had some stake in it.
- For heaven’s sake - A bit divine, keeping it somewhat holy.
- Good grief! - A peanuts-approved expletive of irritation.
Idioms and Expressions:
- Blowing a fuse - You’re not just losing your cool, you’re channeling your inner appliance.
- At wit’s end - When you’ve used up your last bit of patience and wit.
- Throw in the towel - When you’re done fighting and ready to call it quits.
- Up the creek without a paddle - When the situation’s gone from bad to worse and there’s no way out.
Proverbs & Quotes:
“It pays to know where the exit button is.” —Some Frustrated Genius
Inspirational Farewell:
While life can’t promise a peaceful sail on calm seas, rest assured there’s usually an idiom to express exactly how annoyed you feel. For crying out loud, never lose your flair for dramatic expression!
Suggested Readings/Media:
Books:
- Catch-22 by Joseph Heller – A novel filled with dark humor and moments where characters could use a good “For crying out loud!”
- Oh, the Places You’ll Go! by Dr. Seuss – Because frustrations are better tackled with whimsical rhymes.
Movies:
- Ferris Bueller’s Day Off – See how Ferris calmly bypasses those “for crying out loud” moments.
- Planes, Trains and Automobiles – Pure cinematic frustration gold featuring exasperated Steve Martin and John Candy.
Songs:
- “You Can’t Always Get What You Want” by The Rolling Stones – A musical take on dealing with life’s frustrations.
- “Let It Be” by The Beatles – Sometimes the best way to deal is to just let things be, for crying out loud!
Keep your word anthologies brimming with frustration-incanting idioms at the ready, and may your outcries always be memorable!
