Definition

1. Verb (intransitive):

   • To protest or complain about something: To express strong opposition or disapproval, typically in a reasoned or argumentative manner.
   • To argue in protest: To present reasons against an action, decision, or point of view.

2. Verb (transitive):

   • To say or plead in protest: To state something as a formal objection or argument.

Usage Examples

• Intransitive verb (with 'with' + person, 'against' + thing):
  • She remonstrated with her manager about the unfair policy. (She argued in protest with her manager.)
  • The citizens remonstrated against the new tax law. (The citizens protested against the law.)
• Transitive verb (followed by a 'that' clause):
  • He remonstrated that the plan was too risky. (He objected by saying the plan was too risky.)

Advanced Usage

• "to remonstrate in vain": to protest without success.
  • They remonstrated in vain; the decision was final.
• Formal or literary tone: "Remonstrate" is more formal than words like "complain" or "argue," often used in written English or formal speech.

Variants and Related Words

• Remonstrance (noun): A forcefully reproachful protest.
  • His actions were met with strong remonstrance from the committee.
• Remonstrant (noun/adjective): (A person) who remonstrates.
  • The remonstrant delegates presented their case.

Synonyms

• Protest: To express an objection to what someone has said or done.
• Object: To say something to express disapproval or opposition.
• Expostulate: To reason earnestly with someone against something they intend to do (very similar in formality and meaning).

Related Phrasal Verbs / Constructions

• Remonstrate with someone (about/on/over something): The standard construction for protesting to a person.
  • He remonstrated with the board about their short-sighted strategy.
• Remonstrate against something: The standard construction for protesting an action or thing.
  • The group remonstrated against the demolition of the historic building.

Related Idioms

• To no avail: Often used with "remonstrate" to indicate futile protest. (This is a common collocation rather than a fixed idiom with "remonstrate").
  • She remonstrated, but to no avail.

Verb

1. censure severely or angrily
   • The mother scolded the child for entering a stranger's car
   • The deputy ragged the Prime Minister
   • The customer dressed down the waiter for bringing cold soup
2. present and urge reasons in opposition
3. argue in protest or opposition