Victims Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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victims
[ˈvɪktɪmz ]
Definitions
crime
People who have been harmed, injured, or killed as a result of a crime, accident, or natural disaster.
Synonyms
casualties, injured, sufferers.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| victims |
This term is generally used to describe people who have suffered from a crime, accident, or disaster. It puts emphasis on the individuals being affected or harmed.
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| sufferers |
This word is used to describe individuals who are enduring ongoing physical or emotional pain, often due to chronic conditions or diseases. It emphasizes the ongoing struggle.
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| casualties |
This word is often used in the context of wars, accidents, or disasters to denote both those who have been killed and those who have been injured. It has a more neutral tone and is often used in official reports.
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| injured |
This term specifically refers to people who have sustained physical harm or wounds. It is used in various situations like accidents, disasters, or conflicts.
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Examples of usage
- The victims of the robbery were left traumatized.
- The earthquake left many victims in need of assistance.
disease
People who are affected by a disease or medical condition.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| victims |
This word is commonly used to refer to individuals who have suffered harm, injury, or loss due to events beyond their control, such as accidents, crimes, or natural disasters. It typically has a negative connotation.
|
| patients |
This term is used to describe individuals who are receiving medical treatment or care, often in a hospital or clinic setting. The word does not carry a negative connotation.
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| sufferers |
This word is used to describe people who endure pain or hardship, often due to a specific illness or condition. It can have a slightly negative connotation.
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Examples of usage
- Cancer victims often require extensive medical treatment.
- The organization provides support for HIV victims.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Law and Society
- Legal definitions vary, but a victim typically refers to someone who has experienced crime, disaster, or injury.
- Many societies now have victim support services that provide assistance and advocacy for those affected by crimes.
Psychology
- The concept of 'victim mentality' refers to a psychological state where someone perceives themselves as a victim of circumstances perpetually.
- Research indicates that feeling victimized can impact mental health, leading to depression or anxiety.
Cultural References
- Films and literature often explore the theme of victims and their struggles, highlighting resilience and recovery.
- In many folklore stories, the plight of a victim can represent the fight against injustice.
Statistics
- Worldwide, millions of people fall victim to different forms of violence, including domestic abuse and human trafficking.
- According to data, certain demographics may be more vulnerable to becoming victims due to socio-economic factors.
Origin of 'victims'
Main points about word origin
- The word comes from the Latin 'victima,' which originally referred to a living being sacrificed to a divine power.
- In the Middle Ages, the term expanded to include anyone who suffered misfortune or loss.
The word 'victims' originated from the Latin word 'victima', which means 'sacrificial animal'. Over time, the meaning of the word evolved to refer to individuals who have suffered harm or injury. The concept of victims has been present throughout human history, as people have always faced various forms of adversity and challenges.
See also: victimization, victimize, victimized.