Outrage

/ˈaʊtˌreɪdʒ/ noun

Definition

Outrage is a strong feeling of shock and anger, usually because something seems very unfair or wrong.

Etymology

From Old French *oultrage*, from *oltre* meaning “beyond,” related to Latin *ultra*. It originally referred to actions that went beyond normal limits, especially in cruelty or insult.

Kelly Says

Outrage isn’t just anger; it’s anger powered by a sense of moral violation—your inner justice alarm blaring. Social media runs on outrage, which is why it can feel like the internet is always on fire.

Ethical Language Guidance

Gender History

Expressions of ‘outrage’ by women and marginalized genders have often been dismissed as hysteria or overreaction, while men’s outrage has more often been framed as principled or strong leadership. Media coverage has historically amplified this double standard.

Inclusive Usage

Apply the term consistently across genders and focus on the reasons for outrage, not stereotypes about who is ‘too emotional.’

Inclusive Alternatives

["strong criticism","public anger","intense objection","fury"]

Empowerment Note

When describing social movements, acknowledge that women’s outrage against injustice has driven major reforms, even when contemporary narratives trivialized their reactions.

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