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expostulation

/ɛkˌspɒstʃəˈleɪʃən/
IPA guide

Other forms: expostulations

Expostulation is an expression of protest, not a rant exactly, but often lengthy. If you have parents, you might be more familiar with the term "lecture," an expostulation on why you should never do the things you actually want to do.

If you've done any geometry proofs, you know that postulate means to put forward an assumption. Expostulate means to take that assumption away. For instance you might postulate that it's a good idea for you and your friends to drive to the beach in the middle of the night, but your parents might expostulate that it's not safe.

Definitions of expostulation
  1. noun
    an exclamation of protest, opposition, or criticism
    see moresee less
    type of:
    exclaiming, exclamation
    an abrupt excited utterance
  2. noun
    the act of expressing earnest opposition or protest
    see moresee less
    type of:
    communicating, communication
    the activity of communicating; the activity of conveying information
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