Ill will: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe a general feeling of resentment or dislike without necessarily implying active opposition or harm.

• Even though the disagreement was resolved, there was still some ill will between them.
• She couldn't help but feel ill will towards her former boss for the unfair dismissal.

Describes the intention or desire to do harm or cause suffering to someone, often maliciously.

• He spoke with clear malice in his voice.
• The note was written with hidden malice, aiming to upset the recipient.

Refers to petty or minor actions intended to irritate or hurt someone, often driven by envy or resentment.

• He broke the vase out of sheer spite.
• She refused to help him out of spite, even though it would have been easy.

Refers to strong hostility or opposition, usually involving deep-seated hatred.

• The animosity between the two rival teams was evident during the match.
• Years of animosity made it difficult for the neighbors to reconcile.

Used to describe openly unfriendly or aggressive behavior, often in a more overt manner.

• The soldier encountered hostility in the occupied territory.
• Despite her attempts to be polite, she was met with hostility from her colleagues.

Describes active opposition or conflict, often involving actions and words, rather than just feelings.

• There was clear antagonism between the two political parties.
• His antagonism towards her ideas was evident from his harsh critiques.

Used to describe feelings of hostility or antagonism towards someone.

• There was a lot of ill will between the two neighbors.
• Despite their disagreements, she held no ill will towards him.

Describes a deep-seated, often active ill will or hatred, carrying a sense of evil or ill-intent.

• The villain's malevolence was evident in his every action.
• She could sense the malevolence in his eyes.

A strong term for extreme ill will or spite, often suggesting an inherent evil nature. Negative connotation.

• The malignity in his voice was shocking.
• They were taken aback by the sheer malignity of her accusations.

Refers to the reason behind someone's actions or behavior.

• The detective questioned his motive for committing the crime.
• What was her motive in helping them?

Refers to an aim or a plan of action that someone has.

• His good intentions were clear, but his actions did not match them.
• She had no intention of attending the party, but she changed her mind later.