Viciously: meaning, definitions and examples

Used when describing an action with intense malice or ferocity. It often implies an intent to cause serious harm.

• The dog attacked him viciously, leaving deep wounds on his leg.
• She was criticized viciously by the media for her mistakes.

Used to describe actions carried out with a disregard for the suffering of others. It typically has a very negative connotation.

• The villain laughed cruelly as he watched his enemy suffer.
• She was treated cruelly by her captors, who showed no mercy.

Used when actions are carried out with extreme force and often involve physical harm or destruction.

• The protest turned violently when the police arrived.
• He reacted violently when he heard the bad news.

Often used to describe someone's assertive or forceful behavior, especially when they are trying to achieve their goals, sometimes being confrontational.

• The salesperson approached us aggressively, urging us to buy the product.
• He aggressively defended his opinion during the debate.

Describes actions done with physical power or strong effort. It does not necessarily carry a negative connotation.

• He closed the door forcefully, shaking the whole house.
• She spoke forcefully about the need for change.

Use 'viciously' when describing an action that is cruel or violent, often with an intent to cause harm.

• The dog attacked viciously, showing no mercy.
• She was criticized viciously by the media.

Use 'harshly' when describing a manner that is unkind, severe, or strict, often in terms of criticism or judgment.

• The teacher was harshly criticized for her teaching methods.
• He spoke harshly to his subordinates.

Use 'severely' when describing something that is strict or intense in degree or effect. It is often used in formal or serious contexts.

• The economy was severely affected by the pandemic.
• She was severely punished for breaking the rules.

Use 'vindictively' to describe actions taken with the intention of revenge. This word has a distinctly negative connotation.

• He acted vindictively, seeking to get back at those who wronged him.
• She was fired vindictively after a disagreement with her boss.

Use 'maliciously' to describe an action done with the intention of causing harm or with ill will. This often has a negative connotation.

• He spread rumors maliciously to ruin her reputation.
• The email was sent maliciously to cause panic.