Spitefully: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when someone acts out of spite, with the intention to hurt or annoy someone else. Spiteful behavior often stems from feelings of resentment or bitterness.

• She spitefully spread rumors about her colleague after being passed over for the promotion.
• He laughed spitefully when he saw her trip and fall.

Describes actions taken with the intention of seeking revenge or punishment. Vindictive behavior is characterized by a relentless desire to retaliate for a perceived wrong.

• He vindictively plotted ways to ruin the career of the man who had insulted him.
• She vindictively reported every minor mistake her co-worker made to their boss.

Refers to actions done with ill intent, intending to cause harm, damage, or suffering. Malicious behavior is more severe than spiteful behavior and often involves a premeditated plan.

• The hacker maliciously deleted all the important files from the company's server.
• He was charged for maliciously damaging his neighbor's property.

Used to describe actions or words that are filled with intense bitterness and hostility. This term often implies a toxic level of malevolence.

• She spoke venomously, her words cutting deeper than any physical wound.
• He glared at his rival venomously, filled with pure hatred.

This word is used to describe an action done with a strong desire to harm or upset someone. It typically implies an act motivated by spite or hatred.

• She broke his favorite vase spitefully

This word is used to indicate actions performed with the intention to cause harm or with ill will. It often carries a stronger and more deliberate negative connotation.

• He spread maliciously false rumors about her at work

This word is used to describe actions taken with a desire for revenge. It suggests a strong intention to avenge perceived wrongs and often involves planning and deliberation.

• After being fired, he vindictively damaged company property

This word describes a person or their actions as showing an intention to hurt or offend. It's usually used to characterize someone's overall demeanor or recurring behavior.

• Her spiteful comments made everyone uncomfortable