Assail – 1. to attack violently 2. to criticise someone strongly

(Pronounced uh-sayl)

To remember the definition of the word assail, use the following mnemonic:

As they sailed (assail) towards the coast, the inhabitants knew this was going to be a violent attack. They criticised the king strongly for not having been ready.

Examples of assail in a sentence (to attack violently)

My child fears the monsters under the bed will assail her if she doesn't keep the light turned on. 

My computer was hacked and now all kinds of junk email and spam constantly assail my inbox.

If you talk negatively about Kim’s father, her response is to assail you with insults.

Examples of assail in a sentence (to criticise someone strongly)

The newspapers would assail the government every day.

I wish my teachers wouldn't assail me so often, I'm trying my best.

You have to be tactful, if you assail people they often won't listen.