Repulsive: meaning, definitions and examples

Repulsive is suitable for describing something that is extremely unpleasant and pushes people away, often because it is physically gross or morally wrong.

• The smell coming from the dumpster was absolutely repulsive.
• His behavior towards his colleagues was repulsive.

Disgusting refers to something that causes a strong feeling of disgust due to its extreme unpleasantness, often connected to taste, smell, or appearance.

• The leftovers in the fridge were growing mold and looked disgusting.
• She found the idea of eating insects utterly disgusting.

Revolting describes something that is extremely unpleasant and can make someone feel sick, similar to disgusting but often more intense.

• The condition of the public restroom was revolting.
• The thought of eating raw meat was revolting to her.

Offensive is used to describe something that causes someone to feel hurt, angry, or upset, often because it is disrespectful or insulting.

• His remarks about her appearance were incredibly offensive.
• The comedian's jokes were considered offensive by many in the audience.

Abhorrent is used to describe something that is deeply hated or detested, usually because it is morally offensive or unethical.

• Animal cruelty is abhorrent to most people.
• The idea of betraying his friends was abhorrent to him.

Used to describe something that causes a strong feeling of disgust or aversion.

• The smell from the trash can was repulsive.
• His behavior at the party was simply repulsive.

Describes the act of exerting force on an object to move it away from oneself. Doesn't necessarily have a negative connotation.

• She was pushing the cart down the aisle.
• He kept pushing despite feeling tired.

Can be used to describe the act of operating a vehicle or something that provides motivation and force. Note that it doesn't share the same negative connotation as the other words in the list.

• She was driving to work when she heard the news.
• He has a driving ambition to succeed in his career.

Used when talking about forcing something out, often from a place or group. Can have a negative connotation if referring to someone being expelled.

• The school is expelling students who are caught cheating.
• The process involves expelling waste from the body.