crank letter

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Word: Crank Letter

Definition: A "crank letter" is a type of letter that is often written by someone who is upset or angry. It is usually sent anonymously, meaning the person who wrote it does not reveal their name. Crank letters often contain complaints, criticism, or strange ideas that may not be based on facts.

Usage Instructions

• When to Use: You can use the term "crank letter" to describe any letter that is harsh, angry, or unreasonable in its tone and content.
• Context: It is often used in discussions about communication, especially when referring to negative feedback sent through the mail or email.

Example Sentence

• "After the new policy was announced, the company received several crank letters from unhappy customers."

Advanced Usage

In a more formal context, "crank letters" may also be discussed in terms of their impact on organizations or public figures, indicating how they might influence public perception or provoke responses.

Word Variants

• Crank (noun): A person who has strange or unconventional ideas.
• Cranky (adjective): Irritable or easily annoyed, which can describe someone who might write a crank letter.

Different Meanings

The word "crank" can have other meanings too: 1. Crank (verb): To turn a handle or lever to start something, like a machine. 2. Crank (noun): A mechanical part that converts circular motion into linear motion.

Synonyms

• Angry letter
• Complaint letter
• Anonymous letter
• Hostile correspondence

Idioms and Phrasal Verbs

While there are no specific idioms or phrasal verbs directly related to "crank letter," you might use phrases like: - "Blow off steam": To express anger or frustration, which might lead someone to write a crank letter. - "Take it out on": To express frustration on someone else, possibly by writing a crank letter.

Summary

A "crank letter" is a negative, often anonymous letter expressing anger or complaints.

Academic

Noun

1. a hostile (usually anonymous) letter