parade of horribles
The term "parade of horribles" has both a literal and a metaphorical meaning, often used to describe exaggerated negative outcomes.
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Definition
C1Rhetoric
(informal, critical thinking)A rhetorical technique listing exaggerated worst-case scenarios to argue against a proposal.
Example
- He used a parade of horribles to convince the committee to reject the new policy.
C1Law
(informal)A method of argumentation presenting a series of terrible outcomes that might result from a specific legal decision.
Example
- The lawyer's parade of horribles aimed to highlight the potential risks of the ruling.
B2Cultural
(regional, historical)A traditional parade featuring participants in grotesque costumes, often satirical, common in some New England towns.
Example
- The annual parade of horribles in Rhode Island is a beloved local tradition.
Similar
Terms that have similar or relatively close meanings to "parade of horribles":