Hateful: meaning, definitions and examples

Best used to describe someone or something that evokes strong feelings of dislike or hatred. Often used in emotional or intense situations.

• Her hateful remarks made everyone uncomfortable.
• He couldn't stand the hateful atmosphere in the office.

Implies the intention to cause harm or pain out of spite. Frequently used in reference to actions or behaviors.

• The hacker's malicious attack compromised the company's data.
• She spread malicious rumors about her coworker.

Denotes actions or words intended to hurt someone out of resentment or bitterness. Often used in personal conflicts or when describing petty behavior.

• His spiteful comments during the meeting were uncalled for.
• She did it just to be spiteful and ruin his day.

Used metaphorically to describe speech or behavior that is extremely hurtful or filled with intense anger. Can also literally describe poisonous animals.

• Her words were as venomous as a snake's bite.
• They exchanged venomous glances after the argument.

Describes someone who seeks revenge or aims to cause pain because of perceived wrongs. Has a strong negative connotation.

• His vindictive nature made him difficult to work with.
• She vowed to take vindictive action against her rival.

Used to describe someone or something that is aggressively unfriendly or antagonistic. Commonly used in situations involving conflict or opposition.

• The meeting turned hostile when the budget cuts were mentioned.
• He gave her a hostile look as she entered the room.

Used to describe something full of hate or extremely unpleasant.

• Her hateful comments made everyone uncomfortable
• The hateful attitude of the group was shocking

Used for something that causes disgust and is morally wrong.

• His actions were abhorrent to everyone who knew him
• The practice was considered abhorrent by the entire community

Used to describe something or someone that deserves hatred and contempt.

• Cheating on the exam is a despicable act
• They committed a despicable crime that shocked the nation

Used to describe something that is extremely bad or unpleasant in a more intense manner.

• The abominable weather ruined our trip
• His abominable behavior towards his colleagues was unacceptable

Used to describe something that is intensely disliked or loathed.

• The detestable habit of lying must be addressed
• She found his arrogance utterly detestable

Used to describe something that is extremely distasteful or unacceptable, often with a moral tone.

• The idea was repugnant to him
• The repugnant smell made everyone nauseous