Outrageous in a Sentence: Meaning & Examples

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“Outrageous” in a Sentence: Meaning and Use

Outrageous describes something shocking because it is unacceptable, unreasonable, or unusually strange. The sentence around it shows whether the writer is criticizing an action or price, or describing something bold and attention-grabbing.

1. Use “outrageous” for something unacceptable

When an action, statement, or situation is called outrageous, the speaker considers it shocking or morally unacceptable.

• It was outrageous that the company ignored repeated reports of the unsafe stairway.
• The editor rejected the outrageous claim because it had no supporting evidence.
• Residents called the sudden eviction notice outrageous.

This use conveys a strong judgment. In neutral writing, describe the specific problem and give evidence instead of relying on the adjective alone.

2. Use it for an unreasonable price or amount

Outrageous can also mean far too high or unreasonable, especially when describing prices, fees, or demands.

• We thought the repair shop’s fee was outrageous for a ten-minute adjustment.
• The festival charged an outrageous amount for bottled water.
• After the change in plans, the airline quoted an outrageous fare.

The context explains what makes the amount excessive. If you want a more neutral tone, use a precise comparison such as higher than the estimate or above the usual rate.

3. Use it for something strikingly unusual

The word can describe unusual or flamboyant clothes, behavior, characters, or ideas. Depending on tone, it may criticize something as strange or praise it as bold and original.

• The performer wore an outrageous coat covered in bright paper flowers.
• Her outrageous stage design made the small theater feel like another world.
• His outrageous suggestion was to hold the meeting on a ferry.

Look for clues such as the speaker’s reaction and the surrounding description. An outrageous bill is likely being criticized; an outrageous costume may be admired, mocked, or simply described as unusual.

Where does “outrageous” go in a sentence?

Use the adjective before a noun (an outrageous claim) or after a linking verb such as be, seem, or feel (the claim seemed outrageous).

Quick examples

Sentence	Meaning
The fee was outrageous.	It seemed far too high or unreasonable.
That was an outrageous way to treat a guest.	The behavior was shocking or unacceptable.
The band arrived in outrageous costumes.	The costumes were unusually bold or striking.
She spoke outrageously during the interview.	The adverb describes how she spoke; it means in a shocking or unusual way.

Word form: outrageous is an adjective; outrageously is the related adverb. Cambridge Dictionary gives meanings and examples for both, and Cambridge Grammar explains adjective placement before nouns and after linking verbs. See outrageous, outrageously, and the grammar pages on adjectives and adjective phrase position.

Make the strength of the judgment clear

Outrageous is stronger than unusual or expensive. A costume can be unusual without shocking anyone, and a price can be expensive without seeming unreasonable. Use outrageous when the sentence is meant to communicate that stronger reaction. If you are reporting someone else’s opinion, identify the speaker: “The customers described the increase as outrageous.” That wording separates the report from the writer’s own judgment.

In a review or personal story, the adjective can express an immediate reaction. In a factual explanation, add the detail that prompted it. “The fee was outrageous” tells readers how you felt. “The fee was three times the written estimate” gives them a basis for understanding that reaction. The two sentences can work together when both the feeling and the evidence matter.

Outrageous, outraged, and outrageously

Outrageous describes the thing that causes shock or strong disapproval. Outraged describes someone who feels that reaction. “The outrageous decision left the residents outraged” uses both forms with different roles. Outrageously is an adverb: it can modify an action or another description, as in “an outrageously expensive ticket.” Keep the adjective form for “the ticket was outrageous.”

Frequently asked questions

Can outrageous be a compliment?

Sometimes. In a lively description of fashion or performance, it may signal admiration for something daring or extravagant. Add context that shows the intended reaction instead of assuming readers will hear praise.

Is outrageous suitable for a formal report?

It can appear in a quotation or an attributed reaction. For the report’s own factual description, a precise account of the problem is often clearer.

Does outrageous always refer to morality?

No. It can also describe an excessive amount or something strikingly unusual. The noun and surrounding explanation identify the meaning.

Have you ever come across a sentence that left you completely stunned, perhaps even a bit offended by its sheer audacity? These are the types of sentences that fall under the category of “outrageous.”

An outrageous sentence is one that is shocking, extreme, or highly unconventional in a way that grabs your attention. It can be unexpected, controversial, or wildly exaggerated, often provoking strong emotions or reactions from those who encounter it.

7 Examples Of Outrageous Used In a Sentence For Kids

• The clown wore an outrageous red wig.
• The elephant danced in an outrageous costume.
• The magician performed an outrageous trick.
• The giant ice cream cone was outrageous.
• The roller coaster ride was outrageous fun.
• The superhero had an outrageous cape.
• The fireworks display was outrageous.

14 Sentences with Outrageous Examples

• Outrageous prices at the campus food court make it difficult for students to afford regular meals.
• Some students consider 8 a.m. classes to be an outrageous requirement for their schedule.
• The amount of homework given by professors can oftentimes seem outrageous to students balancing multiple courses.
• Students were shocked by the outrageous behavior displayed during the annual college festival.
• The idea of having exams on Saturdays is considered outrageous by many students.
• The outrageous noise levels in the dorms make it nearly impossible to study.
• Students were appalled by the outrageous dress code restrictions imposed by the college administration.
• The professor’s outrageous grading criteria left many students feeling frustrated and discouraged.
• The amount of censorship imposed on student publications is deemed outrageous by many on campus.
• The college’s decision to increase tuition fees was met with outrageous protests from students.
• The lack of transparency in the college’s decision-making processes is seen as outrageous by the student body.
• Students were left in an outrageous state of shock when they discovered the extent of plagiarism in their assignments.
• The college’s refusal to address the issue of mental health resources for students is viewed as outrageous.
• The outrageous delay in releasing exam results caused anxiety among students waiting for their grades.

How To Use Outrageous in Sentences?

When Outrageous is used in a sentence, it means something that is shocking, extreme, or outrageous in nature. Here are some tips on how to use it effectively:

1. Adjective Placement: Outrageous is an adjective that describes a noun, so it is usually placed before the noun it is modifying. For example, “She wore an outrageous outfit to the party.”

2. Emotional Reaction: Outrageous often conveys a strong emotional reaction, so it is important to use it in contexts where you want to emphasize the extreme nature of something. For instance, “The prices at the amusement park were outrageous.”

3. Tone: Consider the tone of your sentence when using outrageous. It can be used humorously or in a more serious context, depending on the situation. For example, “His behavior was truly outrageous.”

4. Context: Make sure that the surrounding context of your sentence supports the use of outrageous. It should be used when something is truly shocking, extreme, or unreasonable.

5. Examples: To better understand how to use outrageous in a sentence, look for examples in books, articles, or movies. This can help you see how other writers effectively convey the meaning of the word.

Remember, using outrageous effectively in a sentence can add flair and emphasis to your writing by highlighting the extreme nature of something.

Conclusion

In conclusion, sentences with outrageous content often push the boundaries of acceptability or belief, provoking strong reactions from the audience. These sentences can be used for shock value, humor, or social commentary, but they should be approached with caution to avoid causing harm or offense. Writers must carefully consider the impact of their words and strive for a balance between creativity and responsibility when crafting outrageous sentences.

Whether in literature, comedy, or social media, outrageous sentences have the power to captivate and engage readers through their boldness and unexpectedness. However, it is essential to remember that words have consequences, and using outrageous sentences should be done thoughtfully and with awareness of the potential reactions they may elicit. By understanding the impact of their language, writers can harness the attention-grabbing nature of outrageous sentences while still respecting the boundaries of their audience.