About
诟 is a phono-semantic compound. Its semantic component, the speech radical 讠, classifies it within the domain of language and verbal expression. The component 后 provides the phonetic element. The character primarily means to verbally abuse, scold, or publicly denounce, using harsh words to berate or disgrace someone. In classical texts, it can also denote the resulting state of shame or public disgrace caused by such attacks. Its traditional form 詬 uses the full speech radical 言. This structure defines an action where language is employed to deliver abusive criticism or induce shame.
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