😲 For Crying Out Loud: Expressions of Astonishment 🤯
Definition
“For crying out loud” is an exclamatory phrase used to express surprise, indignation, or exasperation. It acts as a toned-down substitute for a stronger expletive. Despite its potentially waning usage, this phrase has stood its ground since its advent in the late 19th century in America.
Related Terms and Expressions
- For heaven’s sake
- For Pete’s sake
- What in the world!?
- Holy smokes!
- You’ve got to be kidding me!
- Are you serious!?
Synonyms
- Oh, come on!
- Seriously?
- Good grief!
- Give me a break!
- For goodness’ sake
Antonyms
- Oh, that makes sense.
- Of course.
- Exactly as expected.
- No surprises there.
Humor-filled Quotes
- “For crying out loud, my coffee’s gone cold again!”
- “If one more pigeon uses my car for target practice, for Pete’s sake, I’ll turn it into a convertible.”
Proverbs
- “Astonishment is the root of philosophy.” - Ancient Proverb
- “Beware of those who cry wolf, for crying out loud.” - Modern Proverb
Literature, Books, Songs, Poetry, and Movies
Books:
- “For Crying Out Loud: The World According to Clarkson” by Jeremy Clarkson
- “You’ve Got to Be Kidding: How to Keep Your Jaw Off the Floor” by Devilina Diemuse
Songs:
- “Shout” by Tears for Fears
- “For Crying Out Loud” by Meat Loaf
Movies:
- “She’s Out of My League” (2010) (Infamous scene: “For crying out loud, she’s so out of my league!”)
Poetry:
- “For crying out loud, Her laughter did astound. It filled the room so high, It reached up to the sky.”
Quizzes 🔍
### Which of these expressions is used to show astonishment or disbelief?
- [ ] Dig in your heels
- [x] For crying out loud
- [ ] Cold shoulder
- [ ] Bite the bullet
> **Explanation:** "For crying out loud" is used to express astonishment, whereas the others have vastly different meanings.
### What could be a synonym for "For crying out loud"?
- [ ] I’m all ears
- [ ] Break the ice
- [x] Seriously?
- [ ] Bear with me
> **Explanation:** Saying "Seriously?" can convey the same sense of exasperation and surprise as "For crying out loud."
### Complete the phrase: "For ____ out loud".
- [ ] goodness
- [ ] happy
- [ ] love
- [x] crying
> **Explanation:** "For crying out loud" is the complete and correct idiom.
### True or False: "For crying out loud" dates back to the 15th century.
- [ ] True
- [x] False
> **Explanation:** The phrase actually comes from the late 19th century in America, not the 15th century.
### Which phrase can replace "For crying out loud" in terms of expressing similar sentiment?
- [ ] Cat got your tongue?
- [x] For heaven’s sake
- [ ] Hit the nail on the head
- [ ] Take it with a grain of salt
> **Explanation:** "For heaven’s sake" is used similarly to express exasperation or surprise, making it a viable substitute.
Inspirational Thought-Provoking Farewell 🌟
In the world of language and expression, clichés hold a mirror to our collective human experiences. Even as some may begin to fade, they remind us of the exaggerated astonishment and humor that color our lives. Embrace every expression, for crying out loud, and remember that our words are as rich and varied as the emotions we speak.
— G.A. Astonishbrows, October 2023
