What is outrageous? Pronunciation and usage in English

outrageous means . Learn how to pronounce and use outrageous through vivid examples and easy-to-understand exercises.

Definition & pronunciation of outrageous

outrageousadjective

/aʊtˈreɪdʒəs//aʊtˈreɪdʒəs/

Okay, let's break down how to pronounce "outrageous." It can be a tricky one! Here's a breakdown and a few tips:

Here's the standard pronunciation:

  • OUT - Like the word "out" as in "outside." (SOUND: /aʊt/)
  • RAH - Like the "rah" in "father" or "Rah Rah!" (SOUND: /rɑː/) – This is a slightly rolled "r" is common in American English, but not strictly necessary.
  • GE - Like the word "geese" (SOUND: /dʒiː/)
  • OUS - Like "ous" as in "mouse" (SOUND: /əs/)

Putting it together: /aʊtˈrɑːdʒəs/

Tips for getting it right:

  • Stress: The stress is on the second syllable ("RAH").
  • The "R" sound: Don’t worry too much about a super-rolled "r" if you're not comfortable with that. A clear "rah" sound is perfectly acceptable.
  • The "ge" sound: Make sure it's a clear "j" sound as in "judge."
  • Listen to examples: The best way to get the rhythm and intonation is to hear it. Here are some resources:

Would you like me to:

  • Repeat the pronunciation slowly?
  • Break it down into even smaller parts?

Usage and examples with the word outrageous in English

Let's break down how to use the word "outrageous" effectively in English. It's a powerful word that expresses strong disapproval and surprise.

1. Meaning:

"Outrageous" means shockingly bad, unacceptable, or extremely excessive. It implies something is so bad it causes anger, shock, or disbelief. It goes beyond simply being bad; it's wrong in a fundamental way.

2. Parts of Speech:

  • Adjective: This is the most common usage. You describe something as outrageous.
    • Example: “The price of that hotel room was outrageous!”
  • Adverb: (Less common) You can use it to modify a verb, meaning extremely or shockingly.
    • Example: “He was behaving outrageously at the party.” (Meaning he was behaving in a very shocking or inappropriate way.)

3. How to Use It Effectively – Examples:

Let's look at examples categorized by what you're describing:

  • Prices/Costs:

    • "The airline ticket prices are outrageous!"
    • “It’s outrageous that they’re charging that much for a simple service.”

  • Behavior:

    • "His behavior at the meeting was outrageous." (Suggests rudeness, disrespect, etc.)
    • “She was outraged by his lies.” (Describes her feeling of anger and shock)
    • “The amount of money he spent on that watch is outrageous.” (Suggests excessive spending)

  • Actions/Events:

    • “The government’s decision to cut funding for education is outrageous.”
    • “It’s outrageous that this injustice is still happening.”

  • Appearance (Figuratively - use carefully): This is tricky. You can use it to describe something visually shocking, but be careful not to be unnecessarily harsh.

    • “The costume was outrageously bright.” (Suggests it's very bright, perhaps a bit over-the-top.)

4. Tone and Context:

  • Strong Emotion: “Outrageous” conveys a strong feeling. It's not a word you'd use casually.
  • Formal vs. Informal: It works well in both formal and informal contexts, but using it with a touch of sarcasm can be effective in informal conversations.
  • Alternatives: Depending on the specific situation, you might consider these similar words: scandalous, shocking, appalling, egregious, unacceptable, excessive, wild, absurd.

5. Phrases and Common Usages:

  • “Out of bounds”: “His comments were outrageous and were completely out of bounds.” (Meaning inappropriate and unacceptable)
  • “Outrageous behavior”: A common phrase to describe shocking conduct.
  • “I am outraged…”: A direct statement expressing your strong feelings.

6. Things to Watch Out For:

  • Overuse: "Outrageous" is a strong word. Using it too often can make your speech seem melodramatic or insincere.
  • Subjectivity: What one person finds outrageous, another might not. Be mindful of your audience and the context.

To help me give you even more tailored advice, could you tell me:

  • What kind of situation are you trying to use "outrageous" in? (e.g., describing a situation, expressing a feeling, writing a story?)
  • What are you trying to describe? (e.g., a price, an action, a person's behavior?)

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