Evilly: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe an action that is done in an immoral or wicked manner. This word is not commonly used in modern English.

• She looked at him evilly before carrying out her plan.
• He smiled evilly, enjoying the chaos he caused.

Often used in legal or formal contexts to describe actions intended to harm others or their property. It implies a deliberate intention to cause damage.

• The hacker maliciously deleted all the files.
• He spread rumors maliciously to ruin her reputation.

Can mean doing something in a way that is evil or morally wrong, but may also be used in a playful or exaggerated sense. Context determines the intensity of the word.

• He plotted wickedly against his enemies.
• She smiled wickedly, enjoying her harmless prank.

Typically used when referring to an action that causes pain or suffering to others. It carries a strong negative connotation and often implies deliberate harm.

• The villain cruelly tortured the prisoners.
• She spoke cruelly, cutting him with her words.

Describes actions where someone derives pleasure from causing pain and suffering to others. Strongly negative and often used to describe extreme cruelty.

• He laughed sadistically as he inflicted pain.
• The sadistic leader tortured his prisoners without remorse.

Used to describe actions that are done with ill-will or a desire to cause harm. Often used to describe someone's intentions or looks.

• He stared malevolently at his rival.
• Her malevolent plans were finally revealed.

Used to describe actions or intentions that are intentionally harmful and immoral. Often conveys a strong negative connotation.

• She smiled evilly as she plotted her revenge

Used to describe someone or something that is morally wrong or evil. Can also be informally used in slang to mean 'cool' or 'awesome,' but the formal usage has a strong negative connotation.

• The wicked witch cast a spell on the villagers
• / That new video game is wicked!

Describes a person or action that intentionally wishes harm or evil upon others. The word carries a negative connotation and is often used in more formal situations.

• The malevolent spirit in the story haunted the old house for years

Describes something that seems evil or harmful in a way that suggests something bad will happen. Often used in a suspenseful or dramatic context.

• There was a sinister shadow lurking in the alleyway

Describes someone or something that intends to do harm or show ill will. Often used to describe legal matters like 'malicious prosecution.' This term has a strong negative tone.

• He spread malicious rumors about his coworker

Typically refers to someone who causes physical or emotional pain or suffering on purpose. This term can describe people, actions, or behavior.

• The bully was cruel to the smaller kids, often making them cry