Scathing: meaning, definitions and examples

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scathing

 

[ ˈskeɪðɪŋ ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

critical

Severely critical; harshly condemning. Scathing remarks or reviews can be extremely damaging to one's reputation.

Synonyms

cutting, damaging, devastating, harsh, severe

Examples of usage

  • Her scathing comments about his work left him feeling demoralized.
  • The scathing article in the newspaper exposed the corruption within the government.
  • The scathing review of the movie caused a significant drop in ticket sales.
  • His scathing critique of the company's policies led to major changes within the organization.
  • The scathing remarks from the judge highlighted the seriousness of the crime committed.

Translations

Translations of the word "scathing" in other languages:

🇵🇹 mordaz

🇮🇳 कटु

🇩🇪 beißend

🇮🇩 pedas

🇺🇦 гострий

🇵🇱 uszczypliwy

🇯🇵 辛辣な (しんらつな)

🇫🇷 cinglant

🇪🇸 mordaz

🇹🇷 acımasız

🇰🇷 신랄한 (sinlalhan)

🇸🇦 لاذع

🇨🇿 ostrý

🇸🇰 ostrý

🇨🇳 尖刻的 (jiānkède)

🇸🇮 oster

🇮🇸 beitt

🇰🇿 өткiр

🇬🇪 მწარე

🇦🇿 iti

🇲🇽 mordaz

Etymology

The word 'scathing' originated from the Middle English word 'scathen', which means 'to injure or damage'. Over time, the meaning evolved to convey severe criticism or condemnation. The use of 'scathing' to describe harsh words or comments became popular in the 19th century and has since remained a common term in the English language.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #22,363, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.