Question

what's the difference between a diatribe and an ad hominem argument?

Answer 1

Google it

Answer 2

An ad hominem argument is based on personal attacks, not a rational response to the issue at hand.

A diatribe is a tirade, denunciation: i.e., a venomous speech or writing.

The difference between the two terms is based on whether or not the argument is personalized, addressing the character of another. [For example, during a debate on global warming, a speaker might say "Only a slimey character like you would back global warming."] In other words, a diatribe speaks to the argument and ad hominen speaks to the person making the argument.

Neither logically addresses the substance of the argument.