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Brutal Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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brutal

[ˈbruːtl ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

description of a situation or behavior

savagely violent; cruel

Synonyms

cruel, ferocious, harsh, merciless, savage.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
brutal

Used to describe actions or events that are extremely painful or cruel, often intended to inflict severe suffering.

  • The dictator's regime was known for its brutal suppression of dissent.
  • The brutal attack left him in the hospital for weeks.
savage

Usually used to describe acts of extreme violence and cruelty, having a primitive and untamed nature, often with a negative connotation.

  • The savage beating left the victim unrecognizable.
  • The war was marked by savage atrocities against civilians.
cruel

Describes someone or something that intentionally causes pain or suffering, often without remorse or empathy.

  • The children thought it was cruel to leave the puppy out in the cold.
  • Her boss's cruel comments made her dread going to work each day.
harsh

Refers to something severe, unkind, or extremely strict, often related to conditions, treatment, or criticism.

  • The harsh weather conditions made it difficult for the survivors to continue their journey.
  • His harsh words left her in tears.
merciless

Describes actions or behavior that show no pity or compassion, often causing suffering without any concern for the victim.

  • The army's merciless assault left the town in ruins.
  • She was known for her merciless ambition in the corporate world.
ferocious

Often relates to animals or people who are aggressively fierce or savagely intense in a way that instills fear.

  • The tiger had a ferocious look in its eyes as it stalked its prey.
  • The argument turned ferocious, with both sides shouting angrily.

Examples of usage

  • He was known for his brutal honesty.
  • The brutal murder shocked the community.
  • The prisoners were subjected to brutal treatment.
  • The brutal winter storm caused widespread damage.
  • The team suffered a brutal defeat.
Context #2 | Adjective

description of appearance

harsh; severe

Synonyms

austere, bleak, harsh, severe, stark.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
brutal

Used to describe something that is extremely violent or cruel. Often carries a negative connotation.

  • The dictator's reign was marked by brutal repression of dissent
  • The movie's fight scenes were graphic and brutal
harsh

Describes something that is physically or emotionally unpleasant. Can refer to weather, criticism, or sound.

  • The harsh winter wind cut through my coat
  • The teacher's harsh criticism upset the students
severe

Used to describe something that is very bad or intense. Often refers to weather, injuries, or punishments.

  • He suffered a severe injury during the game
  • The judge handed down a severe sentence for the crime
stark

Describes something that is very plain, bare, or clear. Often used to highlight a strong contrast or highlight a lack of something.

  • The room was furnished in stark, minimalist style
  • There was a stark difference between the two candidates' policies
bleak

Used to describe situations or environments that are depressing, cold, or without hope.

  • The landscape was bleak and desolate
  • After the accident, his future seemed bleak
austere

Refers to something that is simple and harsh, without any comforts or decoration. Typically used to describe lifestyles, settings, or personalities.

  • The monastery's living conditions were austere but spiritual
  • Her austere demeanor made her seem unapproachable

Examples of usage

  • The landscape was beautiful but brutal.
  • Her face showed the brutal effects of the sun.
  • The brutal sunlight made it hard to see.
  • The brutal wind whipped through the trees.
  • The house stood in the brutal desert.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'brutal'

The word 'brutal' originated from the Latin word 'brutalis', meaning 'like an animal'. Over time, it evolved to refer to actions or situations that are savagely violent or cruel. The usage of 'brutal' has become common in describing harsh or severe circumstances, reflecting the intense nature of the word.

Word Frequency Rank

Position #8,487 indicates this is an advanced-level word. While not essential for basic communication, it will enhance your ability to understand and create more nuanced content.