full cry

Meanings

1. 1phrasefixed phrase

   in a state of intense, noisy activity, especially when many people are pursuing the same goal or target.

   Grammar: Used almost only as 'in full cry', usually after a linking verb or at the end of a clause.

   Patterns

   • be in full cry
   • go in full cry

   By the second week, the election campaign was in full cry.

   The critics were in full cry after the film's release.

   With the investigation in full cry, no one in the office could talk about anything else.

2. 2phrasefixed phraseold-fashioned

   the loud sound of a pack of dogs barking together while chasing an animal.

   Grammar: This literal hunting use is less common today and mostly appears in older stories or descriptions of country life.

   Patterns

   • the hounds in full cry

   The hounds were in full cry as they crossed the field.

   We could hear the pack in full cry far behind the trees.

Common combinations

in full cry

The debate was in full cry when the power went out.

set off in full cry

The reporters set off in full cry after the announcement.

the chase in full cry

The chase was in full cry by the time we arrived.

Synonyms and how they differ

at full tilt

This means at maximum speed or energy, but it does not suggest a group of people or animals all chasing the same thing.

in full swing

This means an event or activity is at its busiest point; it fits parties and projects better than hunts or angry criticism.

Commonly confused: full cry or full cry?

Practice

Make it your own

Write a sentence using “full cry”, then check it and compare it with the examples above.

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