Nefariously: meaning, definitions and examples
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nefariously
[ nɪˈfɛərɪəsli ]
moral context
The term 'nefariously' refers to actions that are wicked, evil, or morally reprehensible. When someone acts nefariously, they are engaged in behavior that is often illegal or unethical. This word suggests a deliberate intent to harm others or to do something wrong. It evokes a sense of malevolence and malice in the actions described.
Synonyms
evil-mindedly, maliciously, sinisterly, wickedly
Examples of usage
- She plotted nefariously against her rivals.
- The villain spoke nefariously about his plans.
- They were caught nefariously hiding stolen goods.
Translations
Translations of the word "nefariously" in other languages:
🇵🇹 de forma nefasta
🇮🇳 दुष्टता से
🇩🇪 heimtückisch
🇮🇩 dengan jahat
🇺🇦 підступно
🇵🇱 podstępnie
🇯🇵 邪悪に
🇫🇷 de manière néfaste
🇪🇸 de manera nefasta
🇹🇷 kötü niyetle
🇰🇷 사악하게
🇸🇦 بشكل خبيث
🇨🇿 zlověstně
🇸🇰 nečestne
🇨🇳 恶劣地
🇸🇮 nepošteno
🇮🇸 illilega
🇰🇿 зұлымдықпен
🇬🇪 ბოროტად
🇦🇿 şər məqsədilə
🇲🇽 de manera nefasta
Etymology
The word 'nefarious' comes from the Latin word 'nefarious', which is derived from 'nefas', meaning 'wrong' or 'crime'. The prefix 'ne-', which generally indicates negation, combined with 'fas', meaning 'that which is lawful'. The term has been used in English since the early 17th century, primarily to describe actions that go against moral laws or conventions. Over time, 'nefarious' has taken on a more sinister connotation, referring specifically to behaviors that are not just wrong, but are actively harmful or evil. As it evolved into an adverbial form, 'nefariously' encapsulates the essence of acting in a way that is wicked or morally wrong, echoing its Latin roots in the notion of unlawful deeds.
Word Frequency Rank
At position #42,116, this word is among the less frequently used terms in English. While interesting to know, it's not crucial for most English learners unless needed for specific purposes.