Exclaimed: Definition and Part of Speech
Exclaimed is a verb typically used to describe a way of speaking with strong emotion or emphasis. It often indicates surprise, joy, anger, or excitement in a person’s voice or tone. The word can be transformed into different grammatical forms such as the base form “exclaim,” past tense “exclaimed,” and past participle “exclaimed.”
Core Synonyms
Below is a table of synonyms for exclaimed, each with its distinct nuance and contextual examples:
| Synonym | Brief Definition/Nuance | Example Sentence | Style/Register |
|---|---|---|---|
| shouted | Implies a louder, more forceful utterance | “She shouted in surprise upon seeing the unexpected gift.” | Informal/Informal |
| cried out | Conveys urgency or an emotional reaction | “He cried out for help when he fell from his bicycle.” | Informal/Formal |
| proclaimed | More formal; suggests a public or emphatic declaration | “The mayor proclaimed the new policy at the press conference.” | Formal/Academic |
| bellowed | Implies a very loud, often rough and guttural utterance | “He bellowed his victory when he won the match.” | Informal/Casual |
| shouted | Similar to “shouted,” but can imply a brief or sudden expression | “The teacher shouted ‘stop’ as students began talking again.” | Business/Neutral |
| yelled | Similar in intensity to shouting, often used for informal settings | “She yelled with delight when she heard the news.” | Casual/Casual |
Usage Notes
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Shouted and yelled are generally interchangeable but can suggest a slightly more aggressive or abrupt tone. They’re appropriate in both informal and casual contexts.
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Cried out often carries an emotional weight and is suitable for describing urgent situations. It fits well in narratives requiring an expression of sudden fear, pain, or joy.
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Proclaimed is used mainly in formal settings and implies authority or public declaration. This synonym is ideal for academic papers or speeches where a strong statement needs emphasis.
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Bellowed suggests not just loudness but a rough or hearty sound often associated with anger or excitement. It’s best reserved for informal contexts, particularly those describing physical actions or reactions.
Common Pitfalls
While synonyms like “shouted” and “yelled” are similar in meaning, using them interchangeably might not always fit the tone you’re aiming for—especially in formal writing where precision is key. Additionally, words like “proclaimed” should be used carefully as they carry a more ceremonious connotation than just expressing surprise or excitement.
Final Recap
In summary, exclaimed can be replaced with various synonyms depending on context and desired nuance:
- Use shouted, yelled, or bellowed for informal contexts needing emphasis on volume.
- Choose cried out to convey urgency or emotion.
- Opt for proclaimed when making a formal or official declaration.
To expand your vocabulary effectively, practice using these synonyms in different scenarios—whether writing essays, crafting dialogue for stories, or simply conversing. This will not only enhance your understanding but also enrich the way you express strong emotions and statements.