remonstrate: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C2 (Very low frequency, formal/literary)Formal, literary, diplomatic; rarely used in casual conversation.
Quick answer
What does “remonstrate” mean?
To protest, object, or argue against something, typically in a forceful or reasoned manner.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
To protest, object, or argue against something, typically in a forceful or reasoned manner.
To plead or reason earnestly with someone in an attempt to dissuade them or to show strong disapproval of their actions.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
Slightly more common in British English, especially in formal or parliamentary contexts. American usage tends towards 'protest', 'object', or 'argue'.
Connotations
In both varieties, carries connotations of formality and reasoned, perhaps futile, argument.
Frequency
Very low frequency in both. More likely found in written reports, historical texts, or formal speeches than in everyday speech.
Grammar
How to Use “remonstrate” in a Sentence
VERB with PERSON (He remonstrated with the manager.)VERB against THING (They remonstrated against the new policy.)VERB that-CLAUSE (She remonstrated that the decision was unfair.)Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “remonstrate” in a Sentence
verb
British English
- The backbenchers remonstrated with the party whip over the proposed legislation.
- I must remonstrate against this gross injustice, my lord.
American English
- The senator remonstrated with her colleagues for failing to pass the aid bill.
- He remonstrated that the evidence was purely circumstantial.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Rare. 'The shareholders remonstrated with the board over the excessive bonuses.'
Academic
Used in historical/political analysis. 'The colonists remonstrated against the Stamp Act.'
Everyday
Extremely rare. Replaced by 'argue', 'complain', or 'protest'.
Technical
Not typical.
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “remonstrate”
- Using it transitively without a preposition (e.g., 'He remonstrated the decision' – INCORRECT; should be 'remonstrated *against* the decision').
- Confusing it with 'demonstrate' (to show).
- Using it in an informal context where it sounds stilted.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No, it is a low-frequency, formal word. In everyday speech, 'argue', 'protest', or 'object' are far more common.
It most commonly takes 'with' (a person) or 'against' (a thing or action). It can also be followed by a 'that'-clause.
The noun is 'remonstrance' (a protest or complaint), which is even rarer.
Rarely. It usually requires a context that makes the target of the protest clear (e.g., 'He listened silently as she remonstrated.').
To protest, object, or argue against something, typically in a forceful or reasoned manner.
Remonstrate is usually formal, literary, diplomatic; rarely used in casual conversation. in register.
Remonstrate: in British English it is pronounced /ˈrɛmənstreɪt/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈrɛmənstreɪt/ or /rɪˈmɒnstreɪt/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “To no avail/without avail (as in 'He remonstrated to no avail.')”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think: REMONstrate = REasonably MONitor and demonSTRATE your strong objection.
Conceptual Metaphor
ARGUMENT IS A FORMAL PETITION (implies a structured, presented case).
Practice
Quiz
In which context is 'remonstrate' LEAST appropriate?