Malevolent Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
๐น
malevolent
[mษหlษvษlษnt ]
Definitions
evil
Having or showing a wish to do evil to others.
Synonyms
maleficent, malicious, sinister, wicked.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
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malevolent |
Use 'malevolent' to describe someone or something with a strong desire to cause harm or evil toward others. This term often suggests a deeply ingrained intention to harm.
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malicious |
It is used when describing actions or comments that are intended to harm, hurt, or upset someone. 'Malicious' often implies a deliberate and spiteful intention, but not necessarily deeply rooted evil.
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wicked |
This term can be used to describe actions, people, or things that are morally wrong or evil. It is a more general term and can occasionally be used in a lighter, more colloquial sense, for instance, to describe something impressively good in an informal context, but in the context of evil, it denotes a clear moral wrongdoing.
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sinister |
This word works well when describing something that suggests evil, harm, or a sense of danger. 'Sinister' often carries a sense of foreboding or ominous intent.
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maleficent |
This word is particularly useful in fantasy or fairy-tale contexts to describe evil actions or intentions. It often has a dramatic and storybook-like quality.
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Examples of usage
- He had a malevolent gleam in his eye.
- The malevolent dictator ruled the country with an iron fist.
- She sensed the malevolent presence lurking in the shadows.
- The malevolent spirits haunted the old house.
- The malevolent intentions of the villain were clear.
harmful
Having a harmful effect; injurious.
Synonyms
damaging, destructive, noxious, pernicious.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
Word | Description / Examples |
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malevolent |
Used to describe someone or something with a strong desire to cause harm or evil intentionally. It often implies a deep-rooted malicious intent.
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damaging |
Refers to something that causes physical, emotional, or reputational harm. It is often used in contexts where the harm is not necessarily intentional but still significant.
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destructive |
Used when something causes a great deal of damage, especially when it results in complete ruin or abolition. It often describes extensive physical harm or damage over a wide area.
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pernicious |
Describes something that is harmful in a gradual, subtle way. Often used in contexts where the harm is not immediately obvious but becomes significant over time.
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noxious |
Commonly applied to substances or environments that are harmful to health. It can also be used metaphorically to describe harmful ideas or people.
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Examples of usage
- The malevolent influence of the drug led to addiction.
- His malevolent actions caused harm to those around him.
- The malevolent bacteria spread quickly through the population.
- The malevolent impact of pollution on the environment is evident.
- The malevolent nature of the disease made it difficult to cure.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Literature
- Malevolent characters often serve as antagonists in stories, such as villains in fairy tales who plot against heroes.
- William Shakespeare featured several malevolent figures, like Iago in 'Othello,' who embodies cunning and deceit.
Psychology
- The concept of malevolence is often studied in the context of dark personality traits, including aggression and manipulation.
- Research suggests that individuals with traits associated with malevolence may struggle with empathy and compassion.
Pop Culture
- In movies, malevolent characters are often depicted with exaggerated evil traits, such as the Joker in Batman who seeks chaos.
- Several popular video games feature malevolent forces as main antagonists, compelling players to overcome them.
History
- Historically, malevolent leaders have been responsible for significant harm, such as dictators who oppress their people.
- The malevolent actions of certain regimes throughout history have led to wars and humanitarian crises, impacting millions.
Origin of 'malevolent'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'malevolens,' which means 'ill-wishing' or 'spiteful.'
- It is formed from 'male,' meaning 'badly,' and 'velle,' meaning 'to wish.'
The word 'malevolent' originates from the Latin word 'malevolens', which is derived from 'male' meaning 'bad' and 'volens' meaning 'wishing'. The concept of malevolence has been present in various cultures throughout history, often associated with evil intentions and harmful actions.