rabble-rousing
Học thuậtThân thiện
Definition
Adjective: * Inciting or intended to incite people to anger or violent action, especially against authority or a particular group: Describes speech, writing, or behavior designed to stir up strong, often negative, emotions like anger or hatred in a crowd or the general public, typically to provoke unrest or rebellion.
Usage
This adjective is used to characterize language or actions that are deliberately provocative and inflammatory. It implies the speaker or writer is appealing to base emotions rather than reason. * It is typically used attributively (before a noun), such as in "a rabble-rousing speech" or "rabble-rousing rhetoric." * It carries a strong negative connotation, suggesting manipulation and danger.
Examples
- The politician was criticized for his rabble-rousing remarks that inflamed tensions in the community.
- The regime banned the rabble-rousing pamphlet for fear it would incite an uprising.
- His rabble-rousing tactics at the rally were condemned by leaders from all parties.
Advanced Usage
- The term can sometimes be used more loosely to describe any speech that is excessively loud, emotional, and aimed at exciting a crowd, even if not explicitly calling for violence. However, the core implication remains one of incitement.
- It can be applied to various media, not just speech (e.g., rabble-rousing journalism, a rabble-rousing blog).
Variants and Related Words
- Rabble-rouser (noun): A person who engages in rabble-rousing.
- The speaker was denounced as a dangerous rabble-rouser.
- Incite (verb): To encourage or stir up (violent or unlawful behavior).
- Demagogue (noun): A political leader who seeks support by appealing to popular desires and prejudices rather than by using rational argument. (A demagogue often uses rabble-rousing tactics.)
Synonyms
- Incendiary
- Inflammatory
- Provocative
- Seditionary
- Agitational
Antonyms
- Conciliatory
- Pacificatory
- Soothing
- Unifying
Adjective
- arousing to action or rebellion