for crying out loud: Idiom Meaning and Origin

What does ‘for crying out loud’ mean?

"For crying out loud" is an expression of frustration or annoyance emphasizing the speaker's exasperation with a situation or person.

Idiom Explorer

The Exasperated Plea Empowered

for goodness' sakes is another idiomatic expression related to "for crying out loud." It is used in a similar manner to express frustration or annoyance. The phrase is often used when someone is exasperated with a situation or person.

for fuck's sake is yet another related idiom that is often used interchangeably with "for crying out loud." It is a more vulgar version of the expression and is used to convey a stronger sense of frustration or annoyance.

for heaven's sake is a commonly used phrase that is closely related to "for crying out loud." It is used to express exasperation or annoyance, and is often spoken with emphasis. The phrase is typically used when someone is frustrated or annoyed with a situation or person.

Categorize the meaning, usage, and origin of this idiomatic expression!

These related idioms are all used to convey a similar sentiment of frustration or annoyance, but each has its own level of intensity and tone. "For crying out loud" is a more casual and mild expression, while "for fuck's sake" is stronger and more vulgar. "For goodness' sakes" and "for heaven's sake" fall somewhere in between in terms of intensity.

When using these idioms in conversation or writing, it is important to consider the appropriate level of formality and tone. "For crying out loud" is suitable for most situations and is a more socially acceptable choice. "For fuck's sake" should be used sparingly and only in informal or casual settings. "For goodness' sakes" and "for heaven's sake" can be used in a range of situations, but may be viewed as slightly more formal or polite alternatives to "for crying out loud" or "for fuck's sake."

It is interesting to note that these idioms all serve the same purpose of expressing frustration or annoyance, but the choice of expression can vary depending on the individual and the context. Some people may prefer to use a stronger or more explicit phrase like "for fuck's sake," while others may opt for a milder expression like "for crying out loud" or "for goodness' sakes."

"for crying out loud" is an idiomatic expression that is commonly used to express frustration or annoyance. It is related to idioms such as "for goodness' sakes," "for fuck's sake," and "for heaven's sake," which convey similar sentiments but with varying levels of intensity and tone. These expressions are all used to emphasize exasperation with a situation or person, and can be chosen based on the desired level of formality or strength of expression.

Example usage

Examples of how the idiom "for crying out loud" can be used in a sentence:

1. Can you please turn down the volume on the TV, for crying out loud? I can hardly hear myself think!

2. I've been waiting for over an hour for my friend to arrive. Where is he, for crying out loud?

3. This assignment is due tomorrow and I still haven't started. I need to focus, for crying out loud!

More "Expression" idioms