Bloodshed: meaning, definitions and examples

Use in general terms to describe situations where blood is spilled, especially in conflicts and violent situations.

• The protest turned into a night of bloodshed.
• Efforts are being made to prevent further bloodshed.

A more general term for physical force intended to hurt or kill someone, applicable in a wide range of situations from domestic to large-scale conflicts.

• The movie contained scenes of graphic violence.
• There has been a rise in violence in the city.

Describes large-scale and chaotic killing, often in a war or disaster, and usually conveys a sense of horror.

• The battlefield was a scene of carnage.
• Victims of the carnage were scattered everywhere.

This word carries a strong negative connotation and is often used to describe killing in large numbers in a particularly brutal manner. It can also be used in the context of killing animals.

• The rebels were preparing for a wholesale slaughter of their enemies.
• The slaughter of innocent civilians shocked the world.

Refers to the brutal and indiscriminate killing of many people, especially civilians. Often used when talking about historical or event-specific atrocities.

• The villagers were victims of a massacre.
• History will never forget the brutal massacre.

This has a dramatic tone and is used to describe an especially gruesome and extensive amount of killing.

• The battle turned into a bloodbath.
• The gang war resulted in a bloodbath.