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scathing

adjective

/ˈskeɪðɪŋ/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of scathing

Extremely harsh, severe, and often expressed with intense disapproval or condemnation.
"The restaurant received a scathing review from the food critic."

Detailed meaning of scathing

When something is characterized as scathing, it implies a level of severity and ferocity in the criticism, capable of inflicting emotional or reputational damage. Scathing comments or critiques are typically aimed at exposing faults, flaws, or failures and are often characterized by their sharpness and intensity. This term can apply to various contexts, such as a scathing review of a book or film that leaves no room for praise, scathing remarks in a heated argument that cut deep, or a scathing editorial that harshly criticizes political actions. "Scathing" underscores the idea of a critical or condemning tone that is intense and unforgiving, leaving a powerful impact on those who encounter it.

Example sentences containing scathing

1. The critic's scathing review left the restaurant in turmoil.
2. Her scathing comments about his work were hard to ignore.
3. The teacher's scathing remarks exposed the student's laziness.
4. The scathing critique of the movie went viral online.
5. The manager's scathing evaluation led to changes in the project.
6. His scathing words wounded her deeply.

History and etymology of scathing

The adjective 'scathing' has an etymology that reflects its sharp and severe nature. It is derived from the Old Norse word 'skāða,' which means 'to harm' or 'to injure.' In the context of language and criticism, 'scathing' evolved from this Old Norse root to describe language or remarks that cause harm or injury, albeit figuratively. It signifies an intense and harsh level of disapproval or condemnation, often with the potential to damage reputations or relationships. The etymology of 'scathing' highlights its historical connection to the idea of causing harm through words, emphasizing the biting and destructive quality of its usage.

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Further usage examples of scathing

1. The journalist's scathing exposé shook the political world.
2. The courtroom erupted in response to the lawyer's scathing accusation.
3. The boss delivered a scathing rebuke to the underperforming team.
4. The athlete faced a scathing backlash for his controversial actions.
5. The judge's scathing judgment shocked the courtroom.
6. The customer left a scathing complaint about the poor service.
7. The scathing report on the company's finances raised concerns.
8. Her scathing sarcasm caught everyone off guard.
9. The senator's scathing indictment of the policy sparked a debate.
10. The scathing editorial criticized the mayor's leadership.
11. His scathing criticism of the proposal was relentless.
12. The scathing assessment of the product led to a recall.
13. The coach's scathing feedback motivated the team to improve.
14. The scathing attack on the author's credibility was unwarranted.
15. The scathing remarks at the meeting left an uneasy silence.
16. The teacher's scathing response to the excuse was justified.
17. The scathing commentary on social media went viral.
18. The scathing letter to the editor addressed a pressing issue.
19. The scathing tone of the email offended many recipients.